Flying with American Airlines soon? Excellent choice! But before you can kick back and relax on your flight, there's that one essential step: checking in. It might seem like a small detail, but knowing the ropes can save you a lot of time, stress, and even potential headaches at the airport. So, are you ready to master the art of American Airlines check-in? Let's dive in!
Your Ultimate Guide to Checking In with American Airlines
Checking in for your American Airlines flight is a crucial part of your travel journey. It confirms your presence on the flight, allows you to receive your boarding pass, and handle any baggage. American Airlines offers several convenient methods, catering to different preferences and situations. We'll walk you through each one, step-by-step.
Step 1: When Can You Check In? Understanding the Timeline
First things first, it's vital to know when you can actually check in. Missing the window can lead to complications, including potentially losing your seat.
Sub-heading: Domestic Flights
For flights within the U.S., you can check in:
Online or via the App: Starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure and ending 45 minutes before departure.
At the Airport (Kiosk or Counter): Generally, you must be checked in at least 45 minutes before scheduled departure. However, some airports may have earlier deadlines, so always double-check if you're departing from a major hub.
Sub-heading: International Flights
For flights to or from destinations outside the U.S., the timeline is slightly different:
Online or via the App: Starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure and ending 90 minutes before departure.
At the Airport (Kiosk or Counter): You must be checked in at least 60 minutes before scheduled departure. Be aware that some international airports have even stricter deadlines, up to 75 or 90 minutes. Always verify for your specific departure airport.
Important Note on Arrival Times: While these are the minimum check-in times, American Airlines recommends arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights, especially if you're checking bags or traveling during peak seasons. This gives you ample time for check-in, security, and getting to your gate.
Step 2: Choosing Your Check-In Method
American Airlines offers a variety of ways to check in. Pick the one that best suits your travel style and needs.
Sub-heading: Option 1: Online Check-In (The Most Popular Choice!)
This is often the quickest and most convenient method, allowing you to bypass long lines at the airport.
Go to the American Airlines Website: Open your web browser and navigate to AA.com.
Locate the "Check In" Tab: On the homepage, you'll typically see a prominent "Check In" tab or link. Click on it.
Enter Your Information: You'll be prompted to enter one of the following:
Your six-character confirmation code (Record Locator)
Your e-ticket number
Your AAdvantage® number (if applicable)
Your first and last name
Once you've entered the required details, click "Find Trip" or a similar button.
Review Your Itinerary: Your flight details will appear. Carefully review all the information to ensure it's correct.
Confirm Your Identity & Travel Documents: The system will guide you through confirming your identity and any necessary travel documents, especially for international flights (like passport information or visa details).
Select/Confirm Your Seat (Optional): You'll have the opportunity to view your current seat assignment. If you wish to change it, you can select a new seat from the available options. Note that some seat changes, especially for preferred seating or upgrades, might incur additional fees.
Add/Pay for Checked Bags (If Applicable): If you plan to check luggage, this is where you'll indicate the number of bags and pay any associated fees. Paying for bags online or via the app often gives you the best price.
Receive Your Boarding Pass: Once all steps are complete, you'll be able to retrieve your boarding pass. You'll usually have options to:
Download a mobile boarding pass to your smartphone.
Print a boarding pass at home.
Email the boarding pass to yourself.
Choose to pick up a printed boarding pass at an airport kiosk.
Sub-heading: Option 2: Mobile App Check-In (Travel on the Go!)
The American Airlines mobile app is incredibly handy for managing your travel, including check-in.
Download the App: If you haven't already, download the American Airlines app from your smartphone's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS).
Log In or Continue as Guest: Open the app. You can log in with your AAdvantage account or proceed as a guest by entering your confirmation code and last name.
Tap "Check In": From the home screen or "My Trips" section, you'll usually see a prominent "Check In" button. Tap it.
Follow the Prompts: Similar to online check-in, the app will guide you through verifying your details, confirming travel documents, selecting/confirming seats, and adding bags.
Get Your Mobile Boarding Pass: Your boarding pass will be accessible directly within the app. This is often the most convenient option for seamless boarding at the airport. The app will also provide real-time updates on gate changes, boarding times, and flight status.
Sub-heading: Option 3: Airport Self-Service Kiosk
If you prefer to handle things at the airport but want to avoid the full service counter, the kiosks are your friend.
Locate a Kiosk: Upon arrival at the airport, look for American Airlines self-service kiosks. They are typically located near the check-in counters.
Scan or Enter Information: You can usually scan your passport, credit card, or enter your confirmation code, AAdvantage number, or e-ticket number to retrieve your reservation.
Follow On-Screen Instructions: The kiosk will guide you through the check-in process, allowing you to:
Confirm your flight details.
Select or change your seat.
Add or pay for checked bags.
Print your boarding pass and baggage tags.
Attach Bag Tags & Proceed to Bag Drop: If you've checked bags, the kiosk will print baggage tags. Attach these securely to your luggage and then proceed to the designated "Bag Drop" area.
Sub-heading: Option 4: Airport Ticket Counter
For those who prefer a human touch, have special circumstances, or need to check in oversized/special baggage, the full-service ticket counter is available.
Approach the American Airlines Counter: Head to the American Airlines check-in counters at the airport terminal. Be prepared for potentially longer wait times, especially during peak travel periods.
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.
Inform the Agent of Your Needs: The agent will assist you with checking in, confirming your seat, printing your boarding pass, and handling any checked luggage. This is the best option if you're traveling with pets, unaccompanied minors, firearms, or require special assistance.
Receive Boarding Pass and Bag Tags: The agent will provide you with your printed boarding pass and attach baggage tags to your checked items.
Sub-heading: Option 5: Curbside Check-In (Convenient for Domestic Travelers!)
At select airports, American Airlines offers curbside check-in, allowing you to check bags and get your boarding pass without even entering the terminal building.
Look for American Airlines Curbside Check-in: As you arrive at the airport by car, look for the designated American Airlines curbside check-in area.
Present Your ID and Booking Info: You'll need a confirmed ticket/reservation and your photo ID.
Pay for Bags with Credit Card: This service is typically available if you're paying for checked bags with a credit or debit card. There might be a small convenience fee per bag for this service.
Receive Your Boarding Pass and Bag Tags: The attendant will process your check-in, provide your boarding pass, and tag your bags. This option is generally for domestic flights only.
Step 3: Bag Drop and Security
Once you have your boarding pass and your bags are tagged (if checking any), the next steps are crucial.
Sub-heading: Dropping Off Your Checked Bags
If you checked in online, via the app, or at a kiosk and printed your bag tags, proceed directly to the designated "Bag Drop" area. These are often clearly marked and can be much faster than the full-service counters.
If you checked in at the full-service counter or curbside, your bags will be taken from there.
Sub-heading: Navigating Airport Security (TSA)
Have your boarding pass (mobile or printed) and your valid government-issued photo ID ready.
Follow the instructions of the TSA agents.
Be prepared to remove liquids, laptops, and certain electronics from your carry-on for screening.
Allow ample time for security, especially during peak travel hours.
Step 4: Head to Your Gate and Boarding
Once you're through security, it's time to find your gate and prepare for boarding.
Sub-heading: Finding Your Gate
Check your boarding pass for your gate number.
Follow the airport signage to your gate. Many airports have interactive maps or screens to help you navigate.
Keep an eye on airport monitors for any last-minute gate changes.
Sub-heading: Boarding Time
Your boarding pass will indicate your boarding group and boarding time.
American Airlines boards in groups. Listen for announcements for your specific group.
Be at your gate and ready to board by the specified time. If you're not at the gate in time, your seat may be given to a standby passenger, and the doors close at least 10 minutes before departure.
10 Related FAQ Questions: How To...
Here are some common questions about checking in with American Airlines:
How to check in for an American Airlines flight if I don't have internet access?
You can always check in at the airport using the self-service kiosks or at the ticket counter. Arrive early to ensure you have enough time.
How to check bags online with American Airlines?
During the online or app check-in process (Step 2, Option 1 & 2), you'll be given the option to declare and pay for your checked bags.
How to change my seat after checking in on American Airlines?
If you've already checked in, you can often still change your seat through the American Airlines app or website by managing your reservation. If not, ask an agent at the airport.
How to get a mobile boarding pass for American Airlines?
After completing online or app check-in, you'll have the option to download your boarding pass directly to your smartphone or add it to your digital wallet.
How to check in an unaccompanied minor on American Airlines?
Unaccompanied minors require special attention and must be checked in at the airport ticket counter with an American Airlines agent. Online or kiosk check-in is not permitted for unaccompanied minors.
How to check in with special assistance needs on American Airlines?
If you require special assistance (e.g., wheelchair assistance, medical equipment), it's highly recommended to check in at the airport ticket counter to ensure all your needs are communicated and accommodated.
How to check in for an American Airlines international flight with visa requirements?
For international flights, the system will prompt you to enter or verify your passport and visa information during online or app check-in. Make sure all details match your physical documents exactly.
How to find my American Airlines confirmation code?
Your confirmation code (also known as a record locator) is a six-character alphanumeric code typically found in your booking confirmation email from American Airlines.
How to check in for a connecting flight on American Airlines?
If your itinerary includes connecting flights on American Airlines, you'll generally check in for all segments of your journey at once. Your boarding pass will show all connecting flights.
How to get a refund for checked bag fees if my flight is canceled or I upgrade?
American Airlines typically has specific policies for refunds on checked bag fees, often tied to mishandled baggage or specific flight changes. It's best to consult their customer service or FAQs on their website for detailed refund policies.
