Check-in and Boarding
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Check-in is the process of confirming your intention to fly and preparing for boarding. This can be done in various ways, including:
- At the airline's counter: This is the traditional method, where you interact with an airline representative in person.
- Online: Most airlines offer online check-in, usually 24-48 hours before your flight. This allows you to select your seat, print your boarding pass, and potentially avoid queues at the airport.
- Via mobile apps: Many airlines have their own apps that provide check-in functionality, offering similar online check-in and often additional services like tracking your luggage or flight status.
- Self-service kiosks at airports: Touchscreen kiosks allow you to check in and print your boarding pass with no need to interact with an airline representative.
- By SMS: Some airlines offer SMS check-in, especially in areas with limited internet access. You receive a confirmation messae once you're checked in.
As you’ve seen so far, your trip starts long before you get on the plane. And the inspection procedures at the airport are mandatory to ensure a safe journey and to comply with international security standards.
- Metal detector – To access the boarding gate, you must pass through the metal detector (except for people with pacemakers or cochlear implants). Before passing through the metal detector, remove coins, cell phones, keys, belts and other items from your pockets, which must be placed in the tray to pass through the X-ray channel. You may also have to remove your shoes when asked.
- Personal search – If you cannot be inspected by the metal detector for a justified reason, you will have to undergo a personal body search. Pregnant women can request a body examination or a manual metal detector. A physical search can take place even after you have passed through the metal detector, as an alternative or additional security measure. The search must be carried out by a police officer or civil aviation protection agent of the same sex as the passenger. It can be carried out in a private room, if requested by the passenger, in the presence of a witness. Passengers who refuse to undergo a personal search will not be allowed access to the departure lounge. Remember: these procedures are mandatory and are aimed at your safety.
- Hand luggage – Must be inspected by X-ray. The list of prohibited items is widely publicized by airlines at the time of ticket purchase and at check-in counters and must be observed by passengers when preparing their luggage. Check out the items that cannot be carried in hand luggage. If detected, prohibited items must be discarded at the time of inspection. Laptops, notebooks, and portable computers must be removed from hand luggage to pass through the X-ray equipment on domestic and international flights. Any item of hand luggage can be searched in the passenger’s presence. Always cooperate with baggage inspection to avoid inconvenience and delays.
- Firearms – Boarding a passenger with a firearm must be restricted to government employees authorized by specific ANAC regulations, considering aspects related to necessity, flight safety and civil aviation security. Government employees who carry a firearm as a result of their job must contact the airline operator when purchasing their ticket to check whether they are allowed to carry a firearm. If you are authorized to carry a firearm and do not meet the above requirements, you may be allowed to board by checking in your firearm and ammunition.
After going through the security procedures, you can leave the departure lounge if you need to. In this case, ask for instructions on how to proceed. When you return, you will have to go through all the inspection stages again.
The boarding process at the airport is the final stage before you take off. It involves several steps to ensure everyone gets on board safely and efficiently. Find your departure gate, usually displayed on your boarding pass and airport screens. Allow much time to walk through the terminal. Pay attention to your boarding group or zone, usually printed on your boarding pass. This determines your boarding order.
Listen to your boarding group call, proceed to the gate when announced and present your boarding pass to be scanned before entering the jet bridge or boarding stairs. Once on the aircraft, locate your designated overhead compartment or check your larger bags with cabin crew. Refer to your boarding pass for your seat number and settle in. Store personal belongings under the seat or in overhead compartments.
Remember, the process may vary slightly depending on the airport and airline, so refer to your specific travel information for any additional details.
Denied Boarding
There are certain situations where a passenger might be denied boarding. Here are some key scenarios:
- Invalid Travel Documents: Missing or incorrect passport, visa, or other required travel documents can lead to denied boarding. Ensure you have all necessary documents valid for your destination and check visa requirements well in advance.
- Missed Check-in or Late Arrival: Airlines designate check-in and boarding time deadlines. Missing deadlines due to various reasons, like late arrival at the airport, can result in denied boarding, especially on overbooked flights.
- Intoxicated Passengers and Disruptive Behavior: Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs or exhibiting unruly or disruptive behavior that endangers the safety of others or disrupts the flight can lead to denied boarding. Airlines prioritize everyone's safety and have zero tolerance for such behavior.
- Health Concerns: If you appear visibly unwell or have a potential health risk to yourself or other passengers, the airline might deny boarding based on medical grounds. Be mindful of your health and consult a doctor if unsure about travel fitness.
- Overbooking: Airlines sometimes sell more tickets than available seats, anticipating no-shows. If everyone shows up, passengers with the lowest boarding priority or those who purchased the cheapest tickets might be involuntarily transferred to a flight that will take off later.
- Security Threats: If you trigger security alarms or raise suspicion during security checks, further questioning or even denied boarding might occur. Cooperate fully with security personnel and ensure you're not carrying any prohibited items.
- Inappropriate Dress Code: While rare, some airlines might have specific dress code requirements, especially for premium cabins. Ensure you're dressed appropriately and avoid offensive or revealing clothing to prevent potential boarding issues.
Remember, while denied boarding can be frustrating, understanding your rights and options can help alleviate the situation. If you find yourself prevented from boarding your flight, there are certain circumstances in which you may be entitled to assistance and compensation.
Had a problem with the airline? Contact the company through its customer service channels.
Have any questions? Contact ANAC on 163 (the call is free toll from any state in the country, every day from 8am to 8pm).
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