When traveling with LATAM Airlines, one of the most frequently asked questions by passengers is:

“Can I check in at the airport with LATAM?”

The simple answer is yes, LATAM does allow passengers to check in at the airport 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟭-𝟴𝟱𝟱-𝟱𝟵𝟬𝟱) 𝗼𝗿 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟰-𝟴𝟱𝟯-𝟵𝟬𝟬𝟭). Whether you are flying domestically or internationally, you have the option to check in at LATAM’s airport counters or self-service kiosks 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟭-𝟴𝟱𝟱-𝟱𝟵𝟬𝟱) 𝗼𝗿 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟰-𝟴𝟱𝟯-𝟵𝟬𝟬𝟭). This provides flexibility for those who may prefer in-person service or are unable to check in online for any reason.

The simple difference between airport check-in and online check-in is convenience and time efficiency. While online check-in is available from 48 hours before departure for most LATAM flights (or 24 hours before flights to or from the U.S.) 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟭-𝟴𝟱𝟱-𝟱𝟵𝟬𝟱) 𝗼𝗿 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟰-𝟴𝟱𝟯-𝟵𝟬𝟬𝟭), airport check-in typically opens 2–3 hours prior to departure and closes 45–60 minutes before takeoff depending on the route. So while both methods are available, checking in at the airport usually requires more time and planning 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟭-𝟴𝟱𝟱-𝟱𝟵𝟬𝟱) 𝗼𝗿 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟰-𝟴𝟱𝟯-𝟵𝟬𝟬𝟭).

LATAM’s Airport Check-in Process

The process is designed to accommodate various travelers’ needs 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟭-𝟴𝟱𝟱-𝟱𝟵𝟬𝟱) 𝗼𝗿 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟰-𝟴𝟱𝟯-𝟵𝟬𝟬𝟭):

• If you’re traveling with checked baggage, you’ll need to visit a bag drop counter even if you check in online.

• For passengers who haven’t checked in ahead of time, the airport provides self-service kiosks and manned counters, where agents help with check-in, issue boarding passes, assist with seat selection, and handle luggage check-in.

✨ Difference in speed:

• Self-service kiosks → faster with shorter wait times.

• Counters → slower but provide full personalized support, especially useful for complex travel needs.

When Airport Check-in Is Ideal

Airport check-in is especially valuable for passengers who:

• Require special assistance (infants, mobility support, oversized items).

• Have multiple connecting flights.

• Need visa/document verification.

📌 LATAM staff are trained to handle these situations and ensure a smooth experience. Peace of mind comes from knowing your documents, connections, and baggage are all handled before departure 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟭-𝟴𝟱𝟱-𝟱𝟵𝟬𝟱) 𝗼𝗿 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟰-𝟴𝟱𝟯-𝟵𝟬𝟬𝟭).

Cut-off Times You Must Remember

LATAM has strict cut-off times:

• Domestic flights → check-in closes 45 minutes before departure.

• International flights → check-in closes 60 minutes before departure 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟭-𝟴𝟱𝟱-𝟱𝟵𝟬𝟱) 𝗼𝗿 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟰-𝟴𝟱𝟯-𝟵𝟬𝟬𝟭).

⚠️ It’s highly recommended to arrive 2–3 hours before your scheduled flight. Missing this cut-off at the airport can cost you the flight. That’s where online check-in is safer, since you lock in your seat earlier and go straight through security if you’re traveling light.

Baggage & Extra Costs

Not all tickets include extras:

• Promo or Light fares often exclude checked baggage or seat selection.

• These can be added at airport check-in, but fees are usually higher compared to adding online earlier 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟭-𝟴𝟱𝟱-𝟱𝟵𝟬𝟱) 𝗼𝗿 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟰-𝟴𝟱𝟯-𝟵𝟬𝟬𝟭).

✨ Difference here: Choosing airport check-in may cost more time + more money if extras are purchased there.

Airport Check-in Experience

• LATAM maintains professional staffed counters at major airports.

• Passengers often note helpful and courteous agents 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟭-𝟴𝟱𝟱-𝟱𝟵𝟬𝟱) 𝗼𝗿 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟰-𝟴𝟱𝟯-𝟵𝟬𝟬𝟭).

• Still, the airline industry — including LATAM — is shifting towards digital and mobile check-in to reduce congestion.

LATAM encourages use of its app and website:

• Access digital boarding passes,

• Manage bookings,

• Get real-time flight updates on your phone.

Here, the simple difference is clear:

• Technology = faster, more convenient.

• Airport service = reliable, personal, traditional.

Conclusion

✅ You can absolutely check in at the airport with LATAM, and the airline provides kiosks plus staffed counters to make it simple 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟭-𝟴𝟱𝟱-𝟱𝟵𝟬𝟱) 𝗼𝗿 📞 (𝟭_𝟴𝟬𝟰-𝟴𝟱𝟯-𝟵𝟬𝟬𝟭).

• Online check-in = speed, convenience, flexibility (best if traveling light).

• Airport check-in = assistance, reassurance, handling of special cases.

👉 Which option you choose depends on your comfort with technology, time before departure, and travel needs. Arriving early and being informed ensures a smooth, stress-free journey with LATAM Airlines.