Reserved areas for passengers to check-in are referred to as counter. Passengers can also drop-off their baggage and get their boarding passes at counters. Counters might be separated with queue barriers into sections at busy airports. Passengers should pay attention to the queue barriers while getting in line.

The airline counter serves as the primary physical hub for "Ground Services" at the airport. In 2026, you visit the counter primarily to check your luggage, verify your travel documents (especially for international trips requiring visa checks), and print a physical boarding pass if you prefer one over a mobile version. It is also the place to handle special requests, such as purchasing an "at-the-gate" upgrade, checking in oversized items like surfboards, or requesting assistance for travelers with reduced mobility. If your flight is delayed or cancelled, the counter agents are your first point of contact for rebooking and obtaining meal or hotel vouchers. While "Self-Service Kiosks" and mobile apps handle 90% of the check-in process today, the counter remains essential for any task that requires "human intervention" or the physical tagging of bags before they are placed on the conveyor belt for sorting.