Traveling with American Airlines soon? The check-in process is a crucial step to ensure a smooth journey. While it might seem daunting, American Airlines offers several convenient ways to check in, making it easier than ever to get ready for your flight.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through each method, providing clear, step-by-step instructions. So, let's dive in and make your American Airlines check-in a breeze!
Step 1: When Can You Check In? Understanding the Timelines
Before you even think about checking in, it's essential to know when you can do so. Missing these windows can lead to unnecessary stress, or even worse, missing your flight!
Sub-heading: Domestic Flights (Within the U.S.)
For flights within the United States, you have a generous window for online and app check-in:
Online/App Check-in Opens: 24 hours before your scheduled departure.
Online/App Check-in Closes: 45 minutes before your scheduled departure.
For airport check-in (at a counter or kiosk) and bag drop:
Airport Check-in/Bag Drop Deadline: 45 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Sub-heading: International Flights (To or From Outside the U.S.)
International travel often has slightly stricter timelines due to additional document verification.
Online/App Check-in Opens: 24 hours before your scheduled departure.
Online/App Check-in Closes: 90 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Airport Check-in/Bag Drop Deadline: 60 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Important Note: Some international airports might have earlier check-in deadlines. Always double-check the specific requirements for your departure airport, especially for destinations like Amsterdam (AMS), Aruba (AUA), Athens (ATH), and others, which may require 75 or even 90 minutes. It's always best to arrive at least 3 hours before an international flight, even if you've checked in online.
Step 2: Choosing Your Check-in Method: Flexibility at Your Fingertips
American Airlines provides multiple options for checking in, catering to different preferences and travel scenarios. Pick the one that suits you best!
Sub-heading: Online Check-in (Web Check-in) – The Most Popular Choice
Online check-in is highly recommended for its convenience and time-saving benefits. You can do this from the comfort of your home or office.
Access the American Airlines Website: Go to aa.com.
Locate the "Check-in" Tab: On the homepage, you'll usually find a prominent "Check-in" tab or link. Click on it.
Enter Your Details: You'll be prompted to enter your reservation information. You can use:
Your 6-character confirmation code (also known as a Record Locator). This is typically a mix of letters and numbers found on your booking confirmation email.
Your AAdvantage® number if you are a member and your booking is linked.
Your last name.
Retrieve Your Trip: Once you've entered the necessary details, click "Find Trip" or "Check In."
Confirm Your Information: The system will display your flight details. Carefully review all information to ensure it's correct.
Select or Confirm Your Seat: You'll have the option to confirm your pre-assigned seat or choose a new one, subject to availability and your fare class. Be aware that some seat selections, especially for Main Cabin Extra or exit rows, may incur additional fees.
Add Baggage (if applicable): If you plan to check bags, you can pre-pay for them online. This often saves time and sometimes money compared to paying at the airport. Indicate the number of bags you'll be checking.
Declare Hazardous Materials: You'll need to confirm that you are not traveling with any hazardous or banned items.
Get Your Boarding Pass: After completing the steps, you'll have several options to receive your boarding pass:
Mobile Boarding Pass: Highly recommended. Have it sent to your smartphone via email or directly to the American Airlines app. This is paperless and convenient.
Print at Home: You can print a physical copy of your boarding pass.
Email: Have the boarding pass emailed to you for later access or printing.
Pick up at Airport: Choose to pick up your boarding pass at an airport kiosk or counter.
Sub-heading: Mobile App Check-in – Your Travel Companion
The American Airlines mobile app offers an incredibly user-friendly and efficient way to check in, especially when you're on the go.
Download the American Airlines App: If you haven't already, download the official "American Airlines" app from your device's app store (Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS).
Log In or Find Your Trip: Open the app. You can log in with your AAdvantage® account or select the "Find Trip" option and enter your confirmation code and last name.
Tap "Check In": Once your trip is displayed, you'll usually see a prominent "Check In" button or prompt. Tap on it.
Follow the Prompts: The app will guide you through similar steps as the online check-in process: confirming details, seat selection, adding bags, and declaring hazardous materials.
Access Your Mobile Boarding Pass: Your mobile boarding pass will be directly accessible within the app after completing check-in. This is super convenient and updates automatically with gate changes or delays. The app also allows you to track your bags, view real-time flight updates, and even request upgrades.
Sub-heading: Airport Kiosk Check-in – Self-Service at the Terminal
If you prefer to handle check-in at the airport or need to print bag tags, the self-service kiosks are a great option.
Locate an American Airlines Kiosk: Upon arrival at the airport, look for the American Airlines self-service kiosks in the departures area.
Identify Yourself: You can access your reservation by:
Scanning your paper or mobile boarding pass (if you started online/app check-in).
Entering your 6-character confirmation code.
Swiping your credit card (the one used for booking).
Entering your AAdvantage® number.
Scanning your passport (for international travel).
Follow On-Screen Instructions: The kiosk will guide you through confirming your flight details, seat selection, and declaring hazardous materials.
Print Boarding Pass and Bag Tags: If you have checked bags, the kiosk will allow you to print Express Bag Tags. Attach these tags to your bags, and then proceed to the designated Bag Drop area. You can also print your boarding pass here if you didn't get one online or via the app.
Sub-heading: Airport Counter Check-in – For Special Circumstances or Assistance
For those who prefer a traditional approach, have special needs, or are unable to complete online/kiosk check-in (e.g., traveling with a pet, unaccompanied minors, certain international destinations requiring document verification), the full-service check-in counter is available.
Locate the American Airlines Check-in Counter: Head to the American Airlines check-in counters at your departure airport.
Present Your Documents: Have your valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license for domestic, passport for international) and your confirmation code or e-ticket ready.
Speak with an Agent: An American Airlines representative will assist you with the check-in process, verify your documents, check your bags, and issue your boarding pass.
Sub-heading: Curbside Check-in – Convenience for Domestic Flights
At some U.S. airports, American Airlines offers curbside check-in, allowing you to check bags without entering the terminal building.
Look for Curbside Check-in: As you arrive at the airport, look for the American Airlines curbside check-in area.
Present Your E-ticket and ID: You'll need a valid photo ID and your scannable e-ticket.
Pay Baggage Fees: Any applicable baggage fees must be paid with a debit or credit card.
Receive Boarding Pass: You'll receive your boarding pass and bag tags directly from the curbside agent. This option is typically only for domestic flights.
Step 3: Essential Documents and Requirements
Regardless of your chosen check-in method, ensure you have the correct documentation ready.
Sub-heading: For Domestic Travel
Valid Government-Issued Photo ID: This includes a state-issued driver's license, passport, or other government-issued ID. Starting May 7, 2025, TSA requires a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other acceptable ID (like a passport) for domestic flights. Look for a star on your ID for REAL ID compliance.
Confirmation Code/E-ticket Number: Your booking reference.
Sub-heading: For International Travel
Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date for many countries. Check the specific requirements for your destination.
Visas (if required): Many countries require a visa for entry. It is your responsibility to obtain any necessary visas before you travel.
Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA): If you're traveling to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you'll need an approved ESTA. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
Other Travel Documents: Depending on your destination, you might need proof of onward/return travel, vaccination certificates, or other specific entry requirements. Always check the official government travel advisories for your destination.
Step 4: Bag Drop and Security
Once you've checked in and have your boarding pass, the next steps are dropping off your bags (if any) and clearing security.
Sub-heading: Bag Drop
If you checked in online or via the app and paid for bags, simply head to the designated Bag Drop counter at the airport.
If you used a kiosk to print bag tags, attach them securely and then proceed to the Bag Drop.
Make sure your bags adhere to American Airlines' baggage policies regarding size and weight to avoid additional fees.
Sub-heading: Security Checkpoints
Have your boarding pass (mobile or printed) and valid ID ready for presentation at the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) checkpoint.
Follow all TSA guidelines regarding liquids, electronics, and other items.
Allow ample time for security, especially during peak travel periods. For domestic flights, aim for at least 2 hours before departure; for international, at least 3 hours.
Step 5: Gate and Boarding
You're almost there! The final steps are reaching your gate and boarding your flight.
Sub-heading: Locate Your Gate
Check your boarding pass for your gate number.
Keep an eye on airport monitors for any last-minute gate changes.
Use the American Airlines app for real-time gate updates and interactive airport maps.
Sub-heading: Boarding Time
Your boarding pass will indicate your specific boarding group and time.
Be at the gate and ready to board at least 15 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 30 minutes for international flights.
American Airlines typically closes the aircraft doors 10 minutes before departure, and they will not be reopened unless there's a safety, security, or health issue. If you're not at the gate on time, your seat may be given to a standby passenger.
By following these steps, your American Airlines check-in experience will be as smooth and stress-free as possible, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming trip!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check in for an American Airlines flight online?
You can check in online by visiting aa.com, clicking the "Check-in" tab, and entering your confirmation code and last name. Follow the prompts to confirm details, select seats, add bags, and retrieve your mobile or printable boarding pass.
How to check in for an American Airlines flight using the mobile app?
Download the American Airlines app, log in or find your trip, and tap the "Check In" button. The app will guide you through the process, and your mobile boarding pass will be stored directly in the app.
How to check in for an American Airlines flight at the airport kiosk?
At the airport, find an American Airlines self-service kiosk. You can access your reservation using your confirmation code, AAdvantage® number, credit card, or by scanning your passport. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete check-in, print your boarding pass, and express bag tags.
How to check in for an American Airlines flight at the airport counter?
Go to the American Airlines check-in counter at the airport. Provide a valid government-issued photo ID (and passport for international flights) along with your confirmation code to the airline agent, who will assist you with the check-in process and bag drop.
How to check in bags for an American Airlines flight after online check-in?
After checking in online, proceed to the designated "Bag Drop" counter at the airport. If you printed express bag tags from a kiosk, attach them to your bags before dropping them off.
How to find my American Airlines confirmation code?
Your 6-character confirmation code (also called a Record Locator) is typically found in your flight confirmation email from American Airlines or on your e-ticket.
How to choose or change my seat during American Airlines check-in?
During online, app, or kiosk check-in, you'll be given the option to confirm your current seat or select a different one, subject to availability and your fare class. Be aware that some seat changes may incur additional fees.
How to handle checked baggage fees for American Airlines during check-in?
You can pre-pay for up to three checked bags per person directly on aa.com or through the American Airlines app during the online check-in process. Otherwise, you can pay at an airport kiosk or check-in counter.
How to check in for an American Airlines international flight?
For international flights, online/app check-in is available from 24 hours to 90 minutes before departure. Be sure to have your valid passport, any required visas, and other necessary travel documents ready for verification at the airport, as some international destinations require in-person document review even after online check-in.
How to know the minimum check-in time for an American Airlines flight?
For domestic flights within the U.S., you must be checked in at least 45 minutes before scheduled departure. For international flights, this is generally 60 minutes, though some specific airports require 75 or 90 minutes. Always check the specific requirements for your departure airport.
