So, you've booked your American Airlines flight and now the big day is approaching! Feeling a little unsure about the whole "check-in" process? Don't sweat it! You're in the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of checking in for your American Airlines flight, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your journey.
Step 1: Get Ready! (The Pre-Check-in Checklist)
First things first, let's make sure you're properly equipped before we dive into the actual check-in. This is your moment to ensure everything is in order, so let's get organized!
Confirm Your Flight Details: Double-check your flight number, departure date, and time. Have your six-character confirmation code (also known as a PNR or record locator) handy. You can usually find this in your booking confirmation email.
Gather Your Identification:
For domestic flights within the U.S., you'll need a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or state ID). Remember, starting May 7, 2025, TSA will require a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of ID like a passport.
For international flights, you absolutely need a valid passport. Make sure it's not expired and has enough validity for your destination's requirements (often at least six months beyond your planned return date). You might also need a visa, so check the entry requirements for your destination country well in advance.
Review Baggage Policies: Do you know how many bags you're allowed to check, and what the weight and size limits are? American Airlines has specific rules, and exceeding them can lead to hefty fees. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the latest baggage policies, especially if you're traveling with unusual items or have connecting flights.
Consider Your Check-in Window: American Airlines typically opens check-in 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. This is your prime window to check in online or via the app.
For domestic flights, the deadline to check in is generally 45 minutes before departure.
For international flights, it's usually 90 minutes before departure.
However, some airports or special circumstances might have different deadlines, so always verify on your booking.
Step 2: Choosing Your Check-in Method
American Airlines offers several convenient ways to check in. Pick the one that best suits your needs and travel style!
Sub-heading: Option A: Online Check-in (Recommended for Speed and Convenience)
This is by far the easiest and fastest way to check in, allowing you to bypass long lines at the airport.
Visit the American Airlines Website or App: Go to
aa.comor open the American Airlines mobile app on your smartphone (available for iOS and Android).Navigate to the Check-in Section: Look for a prominent "Check-in" or "Manage Trips" tab.
Enter Your Details: You'll typically be asked for your last name and your six-character confirmation code. Alternatively, you can use your AAdvantage® number or e-ticket number.
Verify Your Information: Confirm that your flight details and personal information are correct. This is also where you might be prompted to confirm your TSA Secure Flight information (full name as it appears on your ID, date of birth, and gender).
Select or Confirm Your Seat: If you haven't already, this is your chance to choose a seat. If you have a Basic Economy ticket, seat selection might be limited or incur a fee.
Declare Checked Bags (If Any): If you plan to check luggage, indicate the number of bags you'll be checking. You can often pre-pay for checked bags online at a slightly reduced rate compared to paying at the airport. This saves you time and sometimes money!
Obtain Your Boarding Pass: Once you've completed all the steps, you'll be issued a boarding pass. You have a few options:
Mobile Boarding Pass: This is the most popular choice. Send the boarding pass to your email or save it directly to your phone's wallet app (Apple Wallet for iPhone, Google Wallet for Android). This allows you to simply show your phone at security and the gate. Ensure your phone is charged!
Print at Home: You can print a physical copy of your boarding pass on your own printer.
Email with Mobile Option: Choose this if you want the flexibility of both.
Print at Kiosk/Counter: Even if you check in online, you can still print your boarding pass at an airport kiosk or the ticket counter if you prefer a physical copy or need to check bags.
Sub-heading: Option B: Mobile Check-in (Via the American Airlines App)
This is essentially a streamlined version of online check-in, specifically designed for your smartphone.
Download the American Airlines App: If you haven't already, download the American Airlines app from your app store.
Log In or Find Your Trip: Log into your AAdvantage® account or use your confirmation code and last name to find your reservation.
Follow On-Screen Prompts: The app will guide you through similar steps as online check-in: verifying details, selecting seats, and declaring bags.
Receive Your Mobile Boarding Pass: Your boarding pass will be conveniently stored within the app, ready for use at security and boarding. The app also often provides helpful updates on gate changes and boarding times.
Sub-heading: Option C: Airport Check-in
If online or mobile check-in isn't for you, or if you have special circumstances (e.g., traveling with a pet, unaccompanied minor, or requiring special assistance), you can always check in at the airport.
Sub-sub-heading: Self-Service Kiosks
These touch-screen machines are available in the airport lobby and are a quick way to check in if you don't have special needs.
Locate a Kiosk: Look for the American Airlines self-service kiosks in the departure terminal.
Identify Yourself: You can scan your passport or a credit card used for booking, or manually enter your confirmation code, AAdvantage® number, or e-ticket number.
Follow Prompts: The kiosk will guide you to confirm your flight, select/change seats, and declare checked bags.
Print Boarding Pass and Bag Tags: The kiosk will print your boarding pass and, if you're checking bags, it will print bag tags. Attach these tags securely to your luggage.
Proceed to Bag Drop: If you have checked bags, take them to the designated "Bag Drop" area.
Sub-sub-heading: Ticket Counter Check-in
For personalized assistance or if you have complex travel needs, the traditional ticket counter is your best bet.
Approach the Counter: Join the queue for the American Airlines ticket counter.
Present ID and Confirmation: Have your valid photo ID/passport and confirmation code ready for the agent.
Agent Assistance: The agent will verify your details, issue your boarding pass, and check your luggage. They can also assist with seat changes, special requests, and answer any questions you may have.
Sub-sub-heading: Curbside Check-in (Select Airports)
At some major U.S. airports, American Airlines offers curbside check-in, allowing you to check bags and get your boarding pass right from the curb. This is usually available 4 hours to 45 minutes before departure.
Look for Signs: Drive up to the designated American Airlines curbside check-in area.
Have ID and Credit Card Ready: An agent will assist you, verify your ID, and process any baggage fees (usually credit card only).
Receive Boarding Pass: You'll get your boarding pass, and your bags will be tagged and sent on their way.
Step 3: Bag Drop (If Applicable)
If you checked in online or via the app and have bags, your next stop is the Bag Drop.
Locate the Bag Drop Area: Follow signs for "Bag Drop" or "Checked Bags." These are usually separate, faster lines than the main check-in counters.
Present Boarding Pass and ID: Have your boarding pass (mobile or printed) and ID ready.
Place Bags on Scale: The agent will weigh and measure your bags to ensure they meet the airline's requirements.
Receive Bag Tag Receipt: You'll be given a receipt for your checked bags. Keep this safe, as it contains your bag tracking information.
Step 4: Security Checkpoint
Regardless of how you check in, everyone must go through the airport security checkpoint.
Have Your Boarding Pass and ID Ready: You'll need to present both to the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) agent.
Remove Items: Take out laptops, liquids (if applicable), and anything else required by TSA from your carry-on bag and place them in separate bins. Remove shoes, belts, and jackets as instructed.
Go Through Screening: Proceed through the metal detector or body scanner.
Collect Your Belongings: Once cleared, collect your items from the conveyor belt.
Step 5: Head to Your Gate
Once through security, your final pre-flight step is to get to your boarding gate.
Check Your Boarding Pass: Verify your gate number and boarding time.
Follow Signage: Navigate through the airport, following signs to your gate. Allow ample time, especially in large airports.
Monitor Flight Status: Keep an eye on airport monitors or your American Airlines app for any last-minute gate changes or delays.
Be at the Gate on Time: American Airlines generally requires you to be at the gate and ready to board:
15 minutes before departure for domestic flights.
30 minutes before departure for international flights.
Missing this deadline may result in your seat being given to a standby passenger.
And there you have it! You've successfully navigated the American Airlines check-in process. Enjoy your flight!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions related to American Airlines check-in:
How to check in for an American Airlines flight online?
You can check in online by visiting aa.com or using the American Airlines mobile app, entering your last name and confirmation code, then following the prompts to confirm details, select seats, declare bags, and get your boarding pass.
How to get a mobile boarding pass for American Airlines?
After checking in online or via the app, choose the option to "Email with Mobile Option" or save the boarding pass directly to your phone's wallet (e.g., Apple Wallet, Google Wallet).
How to check bags with American Airlines after checking in online?
If you checked in online, simply take your tagged bags (if you printed tags at a kiosk) or your boarding pass to the designated "Bag Drop" counter at the airport.
How to change seats after checking in with American Airlines?
You might be able to change your seat through the American Airlines app or at an airport kiosk, especially if you haven't received a physical boarding pass yet. For more significant changes or if issues arise, speak with an agent at the ticket counter.
How to check in for an international American Airlines flight?
International flights can be checked in online or via the app starting 24 hours before departure, but you must ensure all necessary travel documents (passport, visa) are accurate and meet destination requirements. The check-in deadline is typically 90 minutes before departure.
How to know the check-in deadlines for American Airlines flights?
For most domestic flights, the check-in deadline is 45 minutes before departure, and for international flights, it's 90 minutes. However, it's always best to check your specific itinerary or the American Airlines website for any airport-specific exceptions.
How to use American Airlines self-service kiosks for check-in?
At the airport, locate an American Airlines kiosk, scan your passport or credit card, or manually enter your confirmation code. Follow the on-screen instructions to check in, select seats, declare bags, and print your boarding pass and bag tags.
How to check in with a pet on American Airlines?
If you are traveling with a pet, you generally cannot complete the check-in process online or via the app. You will need to check in at the American Airlines ticket counter at the airport to ensure all pet travel requirements are met and necessary fees are paid.
How to deal with issues if I can't check in online for American Airlines?
If you encounter problems checking in online (e.g., "unable to retrieve reservation" or an error message), first double-check your confirmation code and last name. If the issue persists, proceed to an airport self-service kiosk or the American Airlines ticket counter for assistance from an agent.
How to add a frequent flyer number to my American Airlines reservation during check-in?
When checking in online or at a kiosk, you should have the option to add or update your AAdvantage® number. If you're at the ticket counter, simply provide your AAdvantage® number to the agent.
