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Airport Check-In Vocabulary

Jun 25, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers typical phrases, procedures, and essential vocabulary used when checking in passengers for a flight at an airport.

Common Check-In Assistant Phrases

  • Request ticket and passport for identification.
  • Ask about checked and carry-on baggage.
  • Inquire if the passenger packed their bags themselves.
  • Offer seat choices (aisle or window) and special assistance (wheelchair).
  • Inform about gate location, boarding time, and flight status (on time, delayed, canceled, overbooked).
  • Request additional documents for children or if ID issues arise.

Typical Passenger Questions and Requests

  • Ask for seat preferences (aisle/window).
  • Confirm meal or special requests (e.g., vegetarian meal).
  • Inquire about flight schedule, onboard amenities, or using electronic devices.
  • Ask about bringing children or strollers through security.

Sample Check-In Conversation Flow

  • Greet passenger and confirm destination.
  • Verify identity using name, ticket, and passport.
  • Request documents for infants or special cases.
  • Assign seats and handle seating requests.
  • Clarify baggage check-in and carry-on items.
  • Issue boarding pass and provide boarding instructions.
  • Provide special boarding or safety instructions if necessary.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Check in — to register for a flight and receive a boarding pass.
  • Boarding pass — document permitting access to the airplane.
  • Carry-on bag — small suitcase or bag kept with the passenger during the flight.
  • Aisle seat — seat next to the walkway in an airplane.
  • Overbooked — when more tickets are sold than available seats.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review and memorize typical check-in phrases and responses.
  • Practice the sample conversation for role-play exercises.
  • Complete the quick quiz on understanding check-in interactions as assigned.