AirAsia travellers urged to arrive early, self check-in

1 min readUpdated May 28, 2025Jan 27, 20171:54 AM

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AirAsia and AirAsia X have urged all guests travelling throughout the Chinese New Year period to arrive earlier at the airport to avoid congestion due to the expected surge in travellers.

In a statement, the budget airline advised guests to arrive at least three hours prior to scheduled time of departure for AirAsia flights, and at least four hours earlier for AirAsia X flights.

Travellers are also strongly encouraged to conduct self-check-in via web, mobile or kiosk services for a smoother journey at the airport.

It said for guests with baggage to check-in, baggage drop counters close 60 minutes before flight departure for all AirAsia and AirAsia X flights.

However, it is advisable to complete baggage drop and proceed to the boarding gate as early as possible.

“Guests with group booking, reduced mobility or with special needs are only allowed to check-in at the counter and should allocate more time to clear all travelling formalities.

“Each guest is only allowed one piece of cabin baggage (weighing not more than seven kg), and a laptop bag or a handbag on board,” it added.

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What this means

AirAsia's strong advisory for Chinese New Year travel is a necessary operational pivot to manage predicted passenger surges. While it shifts responsibility onto the customer for a smoother experience, it pressures airport infrastructure and ground staff to maintain efficiency under duress. This is a common tactic for budget carriers, reminiscent of how ZUS Coffee optimises operations for rapid expansion in Malaysia. It contrasts with the premium, experiential retail growth seen with Tiffany & Co. And Skechers, where customer convenience is paramount. The airline's emphasis on self-service aims to circumvent bottlenecks and improve turnaround times. We will next watch passenger feedback on social media regarding actual airport wait times.

Maria Santos · Retail News Asia newsroom

Questions & Answers

What is the recommended arrival time at the airport for AirAsia X passengers during the Chinese New Year period?

AirAsia X advises passengers to arrive at the airport at least four hours before their flight's scheduled departure time. This recommendation is in place due to an expected increase in travellers during the Chinese New Year.

What is the latest time to check in baggage for an AirAsia flight?

For all AirAsia and AirAsia X flights, baggage drop counters close 60 minutes before the scheduled flight departure time. However, passengers are advised to complete baggage drop and proceed to the boarding gate as early as possible.

Which specific groups of passengers are required to check in at the counter?

Passengers travelling with a group booking, those with reduced mobility, or individuals with special needs are permitted to check in only at the counter. They should allow additional time to complete all travel formalities.

What are the restrictions on cabin baggage for passengers?

Each passenger is allowed to bring one piece of cabin baggage, which must not weigh more than seven kilograms. Also, passengers may carry either a laptop bag or a handbag on board the aircraft.

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