Hey there, savvy traveler! Are you ready to embark on your American Airlines adventure but finding yourself scratching your head about VeriFLY? Perhaps you don't have it, don't want to use it, or simply prefer the good old-fashioned way. Don't worry, you're in the right place! Checking in for your American Airlines flight without VeriFLY is absolutely possible, and in this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish. Let's get you ready for take-off!
How to Check In on American Airlines Without VeriFLY: Your Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide
VeriFLY was designed to streamline the document verification process for certain international destinations during the pandemic. However, it's not a universal requirement for all American Airlines flights, nor is it the only way to get your documents checked. Whether you're flying domestically or internationally, you have several reliable options to check in and verify your travel documents.
Step 1: Understand Your Flight's Requirements (Engage!)
Before you even think about checking in, let's play a quick game of "Travel Detective." Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to figure out exactly what your destination requires. This is the most crucial step when bypassing VeriFLY, especially for international travel.
Why is this important? VeriFLY's primary function was to pre-verify health and travel documents. If you're not using it, you become responsible for ensuring all your paperwork is in order for manual verification.
Your detective tools:
American Airlines' Travel Requirements Page: This is your first stop! American Airlines has a dedicated section on their website for international travel requirements and restrictions by destination. It's constantly updated.
Official Government Websites: For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check the official embassy or consulate website of your destination country. They will have details on visa requirements, passport validity (many countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates!), health declarations, vaccination certificates, and any other entry forms.
Layover Countries: Don't forget about any countries you might be transiting through! Even if you're just passing through, some countries have specific entry or transit requirements.
Take a moment right now and pull up your flight details and your destination. Are there any specific forms or documents you're not aware of? Make a checklist!
Step 2: Gather Your Essential Travel Documents
Now that you're a travel requirement expert, it's time to assemble your arsenal of documents. Having these readily available will make any check-in method a breeze.
Your Valid Passport: This is non-negotiable for international travel. Ensure it's valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
Visas (if required): If your destination or transit country requires a visa, make sure you have it in hand (or digitally, if applicable).
Proof of Onward/Return Travel: Some countries require proof that you intend to leave their territory, such as a return flight ticket.
Proof of Accommodation: A hotel reservation or an invitation letter from a host can be requested.
Health Documents (if applicable): This could include vaccination certificates (like a Yellow Fever card), negative COVID-19 test results (though less common now, always check!), or health declaration forms.
Other Identification: A government-issued ID (like a driver's license) for domestic flights or as a secondary ID internationally.
Copies, Copies, Copies! Make digital and physical copies of all your important documents. Keep them separate from the originals. This is a lifesaver if anything gets lost or stolen.
Step 3: Choosing Your Check-In Method
American Airlines offers several ways to check in without relying on VeriFLY. You can pick the one that best suits your comfort level and travel style.
Sub-heading A: Online Check-in (Recommended for Convenience)
This is often the quickest and easiest way to check in, allowing you to bypass potentially long lines at the airport.
When to Check In: Online check-in opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure and closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and 90 minutes before international flights.
Navigate to American Airlines Website or App:
Website: Go to
AA.comand look for the "Check-in" tab.American Airlines App: Download the American Airlines app from your device's app store. It's incredibly user-friendly and highly recommended.
Enter Your Details: You'll typically need your:
Last Name
6-Character Confirmation Code (also known as a record locator) or your E-ticket number, or AAdvantage® number.
Follow the Prompts:
The system will guide you through the check-in process.
Confirm Your Itinerary: Double-check your flight details.
Review/Select Your Seat: You'll have the option to confirm your current seat or change it (fees may apply for certain seat selections or changes, depending on your fare class).
Add Baggage (Optional): You can often pre-pay for checked bags online, which can save you time and sometimes money at the airport.
Verify Travel Documents (Crucial for International Flights): This is where you would normally input information that VeriFLY would handle. The system will prompt you to manually enter details from your passport, visa, and any other required travel documents. Be meticulous here; accuracy is key!
Health Declarations (if applicable): If your destination requires a health declaration, you might be prompted to acknowledge or complete it.
Obtain Your Boarding Pass: Once successfully checked in, you'll have the option to:
Mobile Boarding Pass: Send it to your phone via the app or email. This is highly convenient.
Print at Home: Print your boarding pass before you leave for the airport.
Email it to yourself: As a backup.
Sub-heading B: Airport Self-Service Kiosk (Quick and Efficient at the Airport)
If you prefer to handle things at the airport, the self-service kiosks are a great option.
Locate a Kiosk: Find an American Airlines self-service kiosk in the departure hall.
Identify Yourself: You can usually do this by:
Scanning your passport.
Entering your 6-character confirmation code.
Swiping your credit card or AAdvantage® card.
Follow the On-Screen Instructions:
The kiosk will display your flight details.
Verify/Enter Travel Document Information: Similar to online check-in, you'll be prompted to scan your passport or manually enter details for any required visas or health documents. Pay close attention to these prompts.
Confirm Seat: You can confirm or change your seat here.
Check Bags: If you have checked bags, you can declare them and print bag tags at the kiosk.
Print Boarding Pass & Bag Tags: The kiosk will print your boarding pass and any necessary bag tags. Attach the tags securely to your luggage.
Proceed to Bag Drop (if applicable): Once your bags are tagged, take them to the designated bag drop area.
Sub-heading C: Airport Ticket Counter (For Assistance and Complex Situations)
For those who prefer a human touch, have complex itineraries, or encountered issues with online/kiosk check-in, the full-service ticket counter is your go-to.
Arrive Early: This is especially critical for international flights. American Airlines recommends arriving at least 3 hours before international departures to allow ample time for check-in and security. For domestic flights, 2 hours is generally recommended.
Have Documents Ready: Present your passport, confirmation code, and all other necessary travel documents to the American Airlines agent.
Manual Document Verification: The agent will manually review all your travel documents, including your passport, visas, and any health certificates. This is where the thorough preparation from Step 1 and 2 pays off!
Check Bags: Hand over your checked luggage to the agent.
Receive Boarding Pass: The agent will provide you with your printed boarding pass.
Sub-heading D: Curbside Check-in (Limited Availability, for Checked Bags Only)
At some airports, American Airlines offers curbside check-in. This is primarily for checking bags and getting your boarding pass, usually only if you've already completed online check-in.
Confirm Availability: Check if your departure airport offers curbside check-in.
Have Boarding Pass Ready: You'll typically need your mobile or printed boarding pass accessible.
Present Documents: The attendant will verify your ID and check your bags.
Tip (Optional): It's customary to tip curbside check-in attendants.
Step 4: Proceed Through Security and to Your Gate
Once you have your boarding pass and your bags are checked (if applicable), it's time for the final leg of the pre-flight process.
Security Checkpoint: Have your boarding pass and government-issued ID ready. Follow TSA (or equivalent) guidelines regarding liquids, electronics, and personal items.
Gate Confirmation: Double-check your gate number on your boarding pass and airport monitors. Gate changes can happen!
Boarding: Listen for boarding announcements and board when your zone is called.
Key Considerations When Not Using VeriFLY:
Accuracy is Paramount: Any discrepancies in your travel documents can lead to delays or even denied boarding. Triple-check everything.
Time is Your Friend: Always give yourself plenty of time at the airport, especially for international flights. Manual document verification can take longer than automated processes.
Stay Informed: Travel requirements can change rapidly. Check American Airlines' website and official government travel advisories frequently leading up to your trip.
AAdvantage® Member Profile: If you're an AAdvantage® member, ensure your passport information is updated in your profile. This can sometimes help streamline the check-in process.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some common questions travelers have about checking in with American Airlines, particularly without VeriFLY:
1. How to find out what documents I need for my international flight without VeriFLY?
You can find out required documents by checking American Airlines' "Travel Requirements" page on their website (
2. How to check in online for an American Airlines international flight without VeriFLY?
Go to aa.com or use the American Airlines app, enter your last name and 6-character confirmation code, and follow the prompts to manually enter your passport and visa details, then receive your mobile or printable boarding pass.
3. How to use an airport kiosk to check in without VeriFLY?
At an airport kiosk, you can scan your passport or enter your confirmation code, then follow the on-screen instructions to verify your identity and input any necessary travel document information before printing your boarding pass and bag tags.
4. How to know if my passport is valid enough for international travel without VeriFLY?
Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Always check the specific entry requirements for your destination country on their official embassy or consulate website.
5. How to handle checked bags when checking in without VeriFLY?
If you check in online or via the app, you can often pre-pay for bags. You'll then take your bags to the designated "Bag Drop" area at the airport, or if checking in at a kiosk, print your bag tags there and then proceed to bag drop. At the full-service counter, the agent will handle your bags.
6. How to get my boarding pass if I check in at the airport counter without VeriFLY?
The American Airlines agent at the ticket counter will provide you with a printed boarding pass once your check-in and document verification are complete.
7. How to ensure a smooth airport experience if I'm not using VeriFLY for an international flight?
Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure, have all your physical travel documents organized and readily accessible, and be prepared for manual document verification at the check-in counter.
8. How to deal with unexpected document issues at the airport without VeriFLY?
If you encounter unexpected issues, remain calm, and explain the situation clearly to the American Airlines agent. They can often guide you on the next steps, but having all necessary documents prepared beforehand is your best defense.
9. How to check in for a domestic American Airlines flight without VeriFLY?
For domestic flights, VeriFLY is generally not used. You can easily check in online via aa.com or the American Airlines app (24 hours before departure), at an airport kiosk, or at the ticket counter using your government-issued ID and confirmation code.
10. How to save time at the airport when not using VeriFLY?
Check in online or via the app as soon as it opens (24 hours before departure), pre-pay for any checked bags, and ensure all your travel documents are perfectly in order and easily accessible to minimize delays at the airport.
