Traveling should be an exciting adventure, not a stressful ordeal. One of the best ways to ensure a smooth start to your journey with American Airlines is to check in online. This simple process can save you valuable time at the airport, helping you bypass long lines and get to your gate faster. So, are you ready to simplify your next trip? Let's dive in!
How to Check In Online for American Airlines: Your Comprehensive Guide
Checking in online for your American Airlines flight is a convenient and efficient way to confirm your presence on the flight, select or change your seat, and obtain your boarding pass before you even arrive at the airport. This guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Understanding the Online Check-in Window
Before you begin, it's crucial to know when you can actually check in online. American Airlines offers a specific window for this:
Domestic Flights (within the U.S.): You can check in online starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure and up to 45 minutes before takeoff.
International Flights (to/from outside the U.S.): The online check-in window also opens 24 hours before departure, but it typically closes 90 minutes before the scheduled flight time.
It's always recommended to check in as soon as the window opens, especially if you want to secure your preferred seat!
Step 1: Choose Your Platform – Website or Mobile App?
American Airlines offers two primary ways to check in online: their official website or their dedicated mobile app. Both are user-friendly, but the app often provides a more integrated and convenient experience for on-the-go travelers.
Option A: Checking in via the American Airlines Website (aa.com)
This is a great option if you're at your computer or prefer a larger screen.
Open Your Web Browser: Launch your preferred internet browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari).
Navigate to the Official American Airlines Website: Type
www.aa.cominto your address bar and press Enter.
Option B: Checking in via the American Airlines Mobile App
The mobile app is incredibly handy for travelers, providing real-time updates and easy access to your boarding pass.
Download the App (If You Haven't Already):
For iPhone users, search "American Airlines" in the Apple App Store.
For Android users, search "American Airlines" in the Google Play Store.
Download and install the app.
Open the American Airlines App: Tap the American Airlines icon on your smartphone or tablet.
Step 2: Locate the "Check-in" Section
Once you're on the website or in the app, the next step is to find the check-in portal.
On the Website:
Look for a prominent link or tab labeled "Check-in" or "Your trips" usually found in the main navigation bar or on the homepage. Click on it.
On the Mobile App:
After opening the app, you'll often see a "Check In" button directly on the home screen or under a "Trips" or "My Trips" tab. Tap on it.
Step 3: Enter Your Reservation Details
This is where you'll provide the information needed to pull up your flight. You typically have a few options:
Confirmation Code (Record Locator): This is a 6-character code (a combination of letters) that you received when you booked your flight. It's usually found in your booking confirmation email.
E-ticket Number: This is a 13-digit number that also appears on your e-ticket or confirmation email.
AAdvantage® Number: If you're an AAdvantage member, you can often log in to your account, and your upcoming trips will be displayed, making check-in even faster.
Enter your Last Name exactly as it appears on your reservation and then your chosen reservation identifier (confirmation code or e-ticket number).
Step 4: Review Your Trip Details and Confirm Information
Once you've entered your details, American Airlines will display your flight information.
Verify Flight Information: Double-check that the flight number, date, and destination are correct.
Confirm Passenger Details: Ensure your name and any other passenger names on the reservation are accurate.
Security Questions/Declarations: You'll likely be asked to confirm that you are not carrying any hazardous materials or prohibited items. Read these carefully and confirm.
Step 5: Seat Selection (Optional but Recommended)
This is your chance to select or change your seat if you haven't already.
View Seat Map: You'll see a graphical representation of the airplane's seating arrangement.
Choose Your Seat: Available seats will be highlighted. Click on your desired seat. Keep in mind that some seats (like Main Cabin Extra or Preferred Seats) may incur an additional fee.
If you're happy with your current seat assignment, you can simply proceed.
Step 6: Add or Manage Checked Bags (If Applicable)
If you plan to check luggage, you can often declare and pay for your bags during online check-in.
Declare Number of Bags: Indicate how many bags you plan to check.
Review Baggage Fees: American Airlines' baggage policy and associated fees will be displayed. Be aware of weight and size limits to avoid additional charges at the airport.
Pay for Bags: If fees apply, you can typically pay with a credit card directly through the online check-in process. This can save you time at the airport.
Remember, even if you pay for bags online, you'll still need to drop them off at a bag drop counter or kiosk at the airport.
Step 7: Obtain Your Boarding Pass
This is the final and most important step! You have several options for receiving your boarding pass:
Mobile Boarding Pass: This is the most convenient option for most travelers.
If checking in via the app, your mobile boarding pass will be generated directly within the app. You can then save it to your phone's digital wallet (like Apple Wallet or Google Pay) for easy access.
If checking in via the website, you may have the option to send the mobile boarding pass to your email or directly to your phone via text message with a link.
Ensure your phone's screen brightness is sufficient for scanning at security checkpoints and the gate.
Printable Boarding Pass: You'll usually have the option to email your boarding pass to yourself for printing at home. This is a good backup option.
Airport Kiosk/Counter: Even if you check in online, you can always print your boarding pass at an American Airlines self-service kiosk or the check-in counter at the airport. This is necessary if you require a physical copy or are unable to use a mobile boarding pass.
Once you have your boarding pass, you're officially checked in and ready to proceed to security at the airport!
Important Considerations for Online Check-in
Special Services: If you require special assistance (e.g., wheelchair assistance, traveling with a pet, unaccompanied minor), online check-in might not be available, and you may need to check in at the airport counter.
Visa Requirements: For certain international destinations that require visa verification, you might be prompted to complete your check-in at the airport.
Connecting Flights: If you have connecting flights on the same reservation, American Airlines will typically issue boarding passes for all segments during your initial online check-in, provided they fall within the check-in window.
Changes After Check-in: Once you've checked in online, you generally cannot make changes to your reservation online. If you need to modify your flight, you'll need to contact American Airlines reservations.
Online check-in with American Airlines is designed to be a straightforward process that empowers you to take control of your travel experience. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth start to your journey, leaving more time for what truly matters – enjoying your trip!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check in online if I don't have a printer?
You can opt for a mobile boarding pass, which is stored on your smartphone within the American Airlines app or your phone's digital wallet. You can also print your boarding pass at an airport kiosk or the check-in counter.
How to change my seat after checking in online?
Generally, once you've checked in, you cannot change your seat online. You would need to speak with an American Airlines agent at the airport or contact their reservations department.
How to add checked bags after checking in online?
If you didn't add bags during online check-in, you can usually do so at the American Airlines bag drop counter or a self-service kiosk at the airport. Be prepared to pay any applicable fees there.
How to get a boarding pass if my mobile phone battery dies?
No problem! You can always visit an American Airlines self-service kiosk or the check-in counter at the airport to get a printed boarding pass.
How to check in online for a flight operated by a partner airline?
If your first flight is operated by an American Airlines codeshare partner (like British Airways or Iberia), you might be able to check in on aa.com. However, for other partner airlines, you might need to check in directly on the operating airline's website or app.
How to handle online check-in if I'm traveling with a pet?
If you are traveling with a pet, you typically cannot complete online check-in. You will need to check in at the airport counter to ensure all pet travel requirements and documentation are verified.
How to check in for a group traveling together?
For groups, you can often check in multiple passengers on the same reservation simultaneously online. Just ensure all names and details are accurate. Larger groups might be encouraged to check in earlier or at the airport.
How to find my confirmation code for online check-in?
Your confirmation code (also known as a record locator) is a 6-character code found in your flight confirmation email from American Airlines. It's usually a mix of letters.
How to get flight notifications after checking in online?
The American Airlines app is excellent for this. Once you're checked in, the app will often display your flight details, including gate changes, delays, and boarding times. You can also sign up for text or email notifications on the AA website.
How to know if online check-in is available for my specific international destination?
While online check-in is generally available for international flights, some destinations require a manual document verification (like visas). If this is the case, the online system will prompt you to complete check-in at the airport. It's always a good idea to attempt online check-in within the 24-hour window to confirm.
