Flight check-ins are nothing but a hassle and a waste of time.

That’s according to Travel Editor for the UK Independent Simon Calder, who told Lunchtime Live that airlines are making passengers “jump through hoops” for no real reason.

“I talk to aviation professionals, and they say, ‘Yes, it’s really important, we’ve got to have a complete manifest of who’s on the plane, we also need to sort out weight and balance issues to make sure people are properly distributed’,” he said.

“But I think in the 21st century, when Ryanair has said that its flights in June were 95% full, that you haven’t got an issue with the weight and balance because basically, almost every seat is occupied.

“So, it’s nothing to do with check-in because I can check-in for a flight and then just not turn up at the gate.”

Mr Calder said “a cynical person” would say that check-ins continue to exist largely as an opportunity for airlines to upsell to customers.

Stranded passengers at Heathrow Terminal 5 in London. Friday March 21, 2025. Imaeg: Alamy

“Budget airlines, when you go and check-in, they will give you a list of marvellous opportunities to spend more money with them,” he said.

“We can do that anytime anyway, if you suddenly realise that you’re going to be wanting more than the miniscule free cabin bag.

“We’re all grown-ups, when you get on the train, you don’t buy your ticket and then the day before departure have to declare that yes, you will still be travelling.”

According to Mr Calder, keeping “the old bag drop going” but getting rid of the actual flight check-ins would probably win over customers.

Main image: Woman walking through airport. Image: NicoElNino / Alamy Stock Photo