Getting your boarding pass for an American Airlines flight is a crucial step in your travel journey! It's the golden ticket (or rather, the scannable code) that grants you access to the security checkpoint and ultimately, your flight. But did you know there are several convenient ways to get it? Let's dive in and make sure you're fully prepared for your next trip.
Ready to get your American Airlines boarding pass in hand? Let's begin!
Step 1: Understand When You Can Check In
Before you even think about getting your boarding pass, you need to know when you're eligible. American Airlines has specific check-in windows, and it's essential to adhere to them to avoid last-minute stress or even missing your flight.
Sub-heading 1.1: Domestic Flights
For flights within the U.S., you can generally check in starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure and up to 45 minutes prior. While you can check in up to 45 minutes before, it's always recommended to do so much earlier, especially if you have checked bags.
Sub-heading 1.2: International Flights
For flights to or from airports outside of the U.S., the check-in window typically opens 24 hours before departure and closes 90 minutes prior to the scheduled take-off. Keep in mind that for international travel, there might be additional requirements like passport verification that can only be completed at the airport, even if you check in online.
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Check-In Method
American Airlines offers a variety of ways to obtain your boarding pass, catering to different preferences and situations. Let's explore each option in detail.
Sub-heading 2.1: Online Check-In (Recommended for Convenience!)
This is by far the easiest and most popular method. Checking in online allows you to get your boarding pass from the comfort of your home, office, or on the go, often saving you time at the airport.
How to Check In Online:
Visit the American Airlines Website or App: Go to aa.com or open the American Airlines mobile app (available on iOS and Android).
Locate the "Check-in" Section: On the website, you'll usually find a "Check in" tab or link prominently displayed. In the app, you'll likely see a "Ready to fly" banner or a dedicated check-in section.
Enter Your Information: You'll typically need your last name and your 6-character confirmation code (also known as a record locator), which you received when you booked your flight. If you're an AAdvantage® member, you can also log in to your account.
Review and Confirm Details: The system will display your flight details. Carefully review everything, including your name, flight number, and destination. This is also where you might be prompted to confirm your seat, add checked bags, or make any last-minute changes (fees may apply).
Complete Security Questions (If Applicable): You might be asked a few security questions, especially for international travel or if you've recently updated your profile.
Choose Your Boarding Pass Delivery Method: Once check-in is complete, you'll be given options for your boarding pass:
Mobile Boarding Pass: This is highly recommended. You can have it sent to your email with a link, or it will automatically appear within the American Airlines app. You can also save it to your phone's digital wallet (like Apple Wallet or Google Wallet) for quick access. This displays a scannable QR code.
Print at Home: You can print a PDF version of your boarding pass directly from the website. Make sure your printer has ink and paper!
Email with Mobile Option: Select this to receive an email with a link to your mobile boarding pass.
Sub-heading 2.2: Mobile App Check-In (Your Pocket Travel Companion)
The American Airlines app is a powerful tool for managing your trip, and getting your boarding pass is incredibly seamless here.
How to Check In Using the Mobile App:
Download and Install the American Airlines App: If you haven't already, download it from your device's app store (Apple App Store for iOS, Google Play Store for Android).
Log In or Find Your Trip: Log in with your AAdvantage® number or enter your confirmation code and last name to find your reservation.
Initiate Check-In: The app will often have a prominent "Check In" button or notification for your upcoming flight within the 24-hour window.
Follow On-Screen Prompts: Similar to online check-in, you'll confirm details, answer security questions, and potentially select or confirm seats.
Access Your Mobile Boarding Pass: Once checked in, your mobile boarding pass (with the scannable QR code) will appear directly within the app. It automatically updates with any gate changes or delays. You can also add it to your phone's wallet for offline access.
Sub-heading 2.3: Airport Self-Service Kiosk Check-In
If you prefer a physical boarding pass or need to check bags, the airport kiosks are a quick and efficient option.
How to Use an Airport Kiosk:
Locate an American Airlines Kiosk: These are typically found in the check-in area of the terminal.
Identify Yourself: You can usually do this by:
Scanning your passport
Inserting a credit card (the one used for booking, though it won't be charged)
Entering your confirmation code
Entering your AAdvantage® number
Follow On-Screen Instructions: The kiosk will guide you through the check-in process, allowing you to confirm your flight, select or change seats, and add checked bags (and pay any associated fees).
Print Your Boarding Pass: Once complete, the kiosk will print your boarding pass and any baggage tags you might need. Remember to attach the bag tags securely!
Sub-heading 2.4: Airport Ticket Counter Check-In
This is the traditional method and is best if you have complex travel needs, are traveling with an unaccompanied minor or a pet, or simply prefer human assistance.
How to Check In at the Ticket Counter:
Proceed to the American Airlines Ticket Counter: Look for the American Airlines signs in the departure terminal.
Present Your Identification and Travel Details: Have your government-issued photo ID (like a passport for international travel or driver's license for domestic) and your confirmation code ready.
Inform the Agent of Your Needs: The agent will verify your details, check you in, and provide your printed boarding pass. This is also where you'll drop off any checked luggage.
Sub-heading 2.5: Curbside Check-In (Select Airports)
At some airports, American Airlines offers curbside check-in, which is highly convenient for checking bags if you're arriving by car.
How to Use Curbside Check-In:
Look for the Curbside Check-In Area: These are usually designated areas outside the terminal building.
Present Your ID and Pay Bag Fees: You'll need your photo ID and a credit or debit card to pay for any checked baggage.
Receive Your Boarding Pass: An agent will issue your boarding pass and tag your bags. This option is generally for domestic flights only.
Step 3: Using Your Boarding Pass at the Airport
Once you have your boarding pass, whether digital or printed, you're ready to navigate the airport.
Sub-heading 3.1: Security Checkpoint
At the security checkpoint, you'll need to present your boarding pass and your government-issued photo ID to the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) officer.
For Mobile Boarding Passes: Ensure your phone's screen brightness is turned up and the QR code is fully visible for scanning.
For Printed Boarding Passes: Have it readily available for the officer to scan.
Sub-heading 3.2: Boarding Gate
When it's time to board your flight, you'll present your boarding pass again to the gate agent. They will scan your boarding pass to confirm your eligibility to board.
Remember to listen for boarding announcements for your specific group number or elite status.
Step 4: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, things don't go as smoothly as planned. Here's what to do if you encounter issues with your American Airlines boarding pass:
Sub-heading 4.1: Can't Access Mobile Boarding Pass
Check your internet connection: Ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi or cellular data connection.
Restart the app or your phone: A quick reboot can often resolve minor glitches.
Check your email: If you opted for "Email with Mobile Option," ensure the email isn't in your spam folder.
Low phone battery: A common culprit! Keep your phone charged. Consider carrying a portable charger.
Save to Wallet: If you're concerned about connectivity, always save your mobile boarding pass to your phone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet, Google Wallet) as soon as you get it. This allows offline access.
Sub-heading 4.2: Boarding Pass Won't Scan
Brightness: For mobile boarding passes, increase your screen brightness to maximum.
Cracked screen/damage: If your phone screen is damaged or your printed pass is wrinkled/torn, the scanner might have trouble.
Try a different method: If your mobile pass isn't working, try to print one at a self-service kiosk or go to the ticket counter.
Sub-heading 4.3: Lost or Misplaced Printed Boarding Pass
Go to a self-service kiosk: You can usually reprint your boarding pass using your confirmation code or AAdvantage® number.
Go to the ticket counter: An agent can assist you in reprinting your boarding pass.
Sub-heading 4.4: Flight Changes or Cancellations
If your flight is delayed or canceled, the American Airlines app will automatically update your mobile boarding pass.
For major changes, American Airlines usually sends notifications via email or text. You may need to get a new boarding pass reflecting the updated flight details. The app often allows instant rebooking in case of cancellations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about getting your American Airlines boarding pass, with quick answers:
How to access my American Airlines mobile boarding pass?
After checking in online or via the app, your mobile boarding pass will appear directly in the American Airlines app under "My Trips," or you can access it via a link sent to your email. You can also save it to your phone's digital wallet.
How to check in for an American Airlines flight if I don't have internet access?
You can check in at a self-service kiosk at the airport or go to the American Airlines ticket counter.
How to print my American Airlines boarding pass at the airport?
You can print your boarding pass at any American Airlines self-service kiosk by entering your confirmation code, scanning your passport, or swiping a credit card.
How to change my seat after getting my American Airlines boarding pass?
You can usually change your seat through the American Airlines app or website under "Manage Trip" or at a self-service kiosk at the airport, depending on availability.
How to get a boarding pass if I'm an unaccompanied minor on American Airlines?
Unaccompanied minors typically must check in at the American Airlines ticket counter with a parent or guardian to receive their boarding pass and complete necessary paperwork.
How to check baggage with my American Airlines mobile boarding pass?
If you've checked in online or via the app, you can go to a self-service kiosk to print baggage tags by scanning your mobile boarding pass, then proceed to a bag drop counter. Alternatively, you can go directly to the ticket counter.
How to ensure my American Airlines mobile boarding pass works at security?
Increase your phone's screen brightness to maximum and ensure the entire QR code is visible. It's also wise to save it to your phone's digital wallet for quick, offline access.
How to retrieve my American Airlines confirmation code if I lost it?
If you're an AAdvantage® member, you can log in to your account on aa.com or the app to find your trips. Otherwise, contact American Airlines customer service with your flight details.
How to get a boarding pass if my flight has been changed or delayed by American Airlines?
Your mobile boarding pass in the American Airlines app will typically update automatically. If you have a printed pass, you may need to get a new one from a kiosk or ticket counter to reflect the changes.
How to get a physical copy of my boarding pass if I used a mobile one?
You can visit any American Airlines self-service kiosk at the airport and use your confirmation code or AAdvantage® number to print a physical copy. You can also ask an agent at the ticket counter.