KIRO NEWSRADIO OPINION

‘You don’t check in, you get left’: Gee and Ursula believe airline’s new rule will boost efficiency

May 29, 2025, 5:00 AM

United Airlines...

A United Airlines jet moves along a runway. (Photo: Bruce Bennett via Getty Images)

(Photo: Bruce Bennett via Getty Images)

United Airlines will soon require passengers to check in at least 45 minutes before departure. Those who fail to check in by the deadline could be denied boarding, according to USA Today.

Gee Scott and Ursula Reutin, co-hosts of “The Gee and Ursula Show” on KIRO Newsradio, supported the stricter check-in time.

“What’s happening is you have a bunch of people that are late, a bunch of people who are late no matter what,” Gee said. “They’re not accountable. They use their forefinger, and they should be using their thumb. So because of this, Ursula, I think this is one that you and I gonna agree on. I want you to be on time, and I want airlines to be more efficient. This will help people be more efficient. And you just get left. You don’t check in, you get left.”

Ursula did agree with Gee, hopeful the new rule will lead to fewer delays.

“Good for them for doing this,” Ursula said. “The real reason, though, is more people are traveling. And the worst thing is, when you are delayed, because there are those last minute—I love it when the airlines are able to get everybody in their seats quickly, and they’re like, ‘OK, we’ve got all our passengers. Ready to go.’ That is the best feeling. The worst is when they’re just waiting and waiting.”

Gee and Ursula say checking in is simple as they discuss United’s new rule

Gee added that checking in is not that difficult.

“Can you just check in the night before the 24 hours, when you’re allowed to check in, that way your airline knows who’s gonna be coming,” he insisted.

But what time do Gee and Ursula get to the airport?

“Your boy gets to the airport at least two hours early,” Gee said.

“Yeah, even for domestic flights,” Ursula responded.

And for the people who don’t mind cutting it close to get to their flight, Ursula calls them “eternal optimists.”

Listen to the full conversation below.

Listen to Gee and Ursula on “The Gee and Ursula Show” weekday mornings from 9 am to 12 pm on KIRO Newsradio. 

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