Written by George Major
The Airport Express makes getting to and from Hong Kong International Airport a breeze. And the in-town check in service makes life even easier. Here’s your complete guide to how to use the service.
What is in-town check in?
Hong Kong International Airport is one of the most user-friendly airports in the world. And the in-town check-in service offers another level of convenience.
In-town check in allows you to check in for your flight and drop your bags at the Airport Express stations at Hong Kong MTR station and Kowloon MTR station. Once your bags are dropped off, you can make your way to the airport unencumbered by luggage.
Who can use the service?
Only passengers flying with certain airlines are able to use in-town check-in. These are:
- Cathay Pacific
- Hong Kong Airlines
- Qantas
- Singapore Airlines (at Hong Kong MTR station only)
Passengers flying on codeshare flights operated by other airlines cannot use the service.
What do I need?
You will need valid electronic travel documents to access the service. If you don’t have a biometric passport or Hong Kong ID, you’ll need to head to the airport and check in as normal. If in doubt, check with your airline!
How much does in-town check-in cost?
Good news! In-town check-in is a free service. But you still need to pay the full Airport Express fare.
Pro tip: You have to use an Octopus or an Airport Express ticket to enter the In-town Check-in area. Luckily, you can buy discounted Airport Express tickets online ahead of time. Just scan the QR code and go.
Things to keep in mind
While you can check in 24 hours before your flight, the Octopus card system only stores information on your last 9 transactions. So, make sure you don’t use your Octopus card more than 9 times between checking-in and boarding the Airport Express, otherwise you’ll be charged twice.
When does the service operate?
You can check in up to 24 hours before your flight, and until 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Service hours vary between airlines, and are different at each station:
Hong Kong Station
- Cathay Pacific: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Hong Kong Airlines: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Qantas: 7 a.m. – 6:35 p.m.
- Singapore Arilines: 9 a.m. – 5.20 p.m.
Kowloon Station
- Cathay Pacific: 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Hong Kong Airlines: 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Qantas: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
How do I use the smart check-in kiosks?
- Select your airline on the touchscreen
- Scan your passport or boarding pass to retrieve your flight information
- Check your personal information and print your luggage tag
- Select your seat and print your boarding pass
- Attach the luggage tag to your luggage
- Head over to the bag drop counter
How do I use the self-service bag drop counter?
- Make sure your luggage tags are attached properly
- Put your checked-in bag on the conveyor belt
- Scan your face with the camera
- Follow the on-screen instructions
- Use the handheld scanner to scan the luggage tag
- Don’t forget to take the claim tag
- Next time you see your bag, it’ll be at baggage reclaim at your destination airport
Are there size restrictions on my luggage?
In-town check-in can only accommodate bags of up to 145cm (length) x 100cm (width) x 85cm (height). The weight limit is 32kg.
If you want to check in oversize baggage, you’ll need to do it at the airport. If you have any doubts, it’s best to contact your airline.
Can I store bags at the Airport Express station?
There are luggage storage services at Hong Kong MTR station and at Hong Kong International Airport. We’ve got a full guide to Hong Kong’s luggage storage services here.
Airport Express tickets
You can use your Octopus card to take the Airport Express, or you can buy a ticket at the kiosk in the station. Alternatively, you can buy discounted Airport Express tickets online in advance.
While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change.
