So, you've invested in a Global Entry membership, and now you're ready to breeze through security and customs like a seasoned pro! That's a fantastic decision that will definitely enhance your travel experience, especially with American Airlines. But how do you make sure American Airlines knows you have this valuable credential? It's all about adding your Global Entry number, also known as your Known Traveler Number (KTN) or PASSID, to your American Airlines profile or individual bookings. Let's get you set up for smoother skies!
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Your Global Entry Number to American Airlines
Getting your Global Entry number linked to your American Airlines travel is crucial for enjoying those expedited benefits, like TSA PreCheck on your boarding pass. There are a few ways to do this, and we'll cover them all.
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| How To Add Global Entry Number To American Airlines |
Step 1: Locate Your Global Entry Number (KTN/PASSID)
First things first, do you know your Global Entry number by heart? If not, no worries! It's easily accessible.
On Your Global Entry Card: Look on the back of your Global Entry ID card. Your 9-digit PASSID (which functions as your KTN) is typically found in the top left-hand corner. It usually starts with numbers like "15," "98," or "99."
Through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) Website: If you don't have your card handy or prefer digital access, log in to your account on the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website (ttp.dhs.gov). Your PASSID will be displayed there.
Important Note: Global Entry membership automatically includes TSA PreCheck benefits. So, when an airline asks for your Known Traveler Number (KTN), you'll simply enter your Global Entry PASSID. They are essentially the same for the purpose of receiving TSA PreCheck.
Step 2: Choose Your Method for Adding the Number to American Airlines
You have a few convenient options to add your Global Entry number to your American Airlines travel. The best method depends on whether you want it applied to all future bookings or just a single, existing reservation.
QuickTip: Don’t skim too fast — depth matters.
Option A: Add to Your AAdvantage Profile (Recommended for All Future Flights)
This is the most efficient method, as it ensures your KTN is automatically applied to any new bookings you make while logged into your AAdvantage account.
Log in to Your AAdvantage Account: Head over to aa.com and log in using your AAdvantage number or email and password.
Navigate to Your Profile: Once logged in, click on your name or "Your Account" usually found in the top right-hand corner of the screen.
Find "Information and Password" or "Profile Settings": Look for a section or link that says "Information and Password," "Profile," or "Account Settings." This is where your personal details are stored.
Locate the "Secure Traveler" Section: Within your profile, scroll down until you find a section labeled something like "Secure Traveler," "Known Traveler Number," or "TSA PreCheck."
Enter Your KTN/PASSID: You'll see a field specifically for your Known Traveler Number (KTN). Carefully enter your 9-digit Global Entry PASSID here.
Save Your Changes: Don't forget to click "Save" or "Update" to ensure your changes are applied.
Pro Tip: Double-check that your name and date of birth in your AAdvantage profile exactly match the name and date of birth on file with your Global Entry membership. Even a minor discrepancy can prevent TSA PreCheck from appearing on your boarding pass.
Option B: Add to an Existing American Airlines Reservation
If you've already booked a flight and forgot to add your Global Entry number, don't fret! You can usually add it to an existing reservation.
Go to "Manage Your Trips": On the American Airlines homepage (aa.com), click on "Manage Trips" or "Check-in."
Retrieve Your Reservation: Enter your last name and the 6-character confirmation code (record locator) for your flight.
Locate Passenger Details/Information: Once you've pulled up your reservation, look for an option to "Edit Passenger Details," "Passenger Information," or similar.
Find the KTN Field: Within the passenger details, there should be a field for "Known Traveler Number" or "TSA PreCheck."
Enter Your KTN/PASSID: Input your 9-digit Global Entry PASSID into this field.
Save/Update Reservation: Make sure to save or update the reservation to apply the change.
Note for Third-Party Bookings: If you booked your American Airlines flight through a third-party website (like Expedia, Priceline, etc.), you might need to contact American Airlines directly (via phone or their chat feature) to add your KTN. Some third-party sites don't allow KTN modifications after booking.
Option C: Add During the Booking Process (For New Flights)
This is the simplest method if you're booking a new flight.
Start Your Flight Search: Begin the booking process on aa.com as usual.
Enter Passenger Information: As you proceed through the booking steps, you'll reach a page where you enter passenger details (name, date of birth, gender).
Find the KTN Field: Look for a designated field labeled "Known Traveler Number" or "TSA PreCheck." It's usually located near your personal details.
Input Your KTN/PASSID: Enter your 9-digit Global Entry PASSID.
Complete Your Booking: Continue with the rest of the booking process. Your KTN will be associated with this new reservation.
Step 3: Verify TSA PreCheck on Your Boarding Pass
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After adding your Global Entry number, the final and most important step is to verify that TSA PreCheck appears on your boarding pass.
Tip: Focus on one point at a time.
Check Your Digital Boarding Pass: If you're using the American Airlines app or a mobile boarding pass, refresh it or download it again. Look for the "TSA PreCheck" indicator, which is often a stylized green checkmark or text.
Reprint Your Boarding Pass: If you've already checked in and have a physical boarding pass, you may need to reprint it at an airport kiosk or the check-in counter to reflect the updated status.
Look for the KTN on Your Confirmation: Sometimes, the KTN will be explicitly listed on your flight confirmation or itinerary.
What if it doesn't appear? If, after following these steps, your boarding pass still doesn't show the TSA PreCheck indicator, don't panic.
Double-check your KTN: Ensure you entered the correct 9-digit PASSID.
Verify Name Match: Crucially, make sure the name on your American Airlines reservation (and AAdvantage profile) exactly matches the name on file with your Global Entry membership. This includes middle names, hyphens, and suffixes.
Contact American Airlines Customer Service: If everything appears correct on your end, it's best to call American Airlines customer service. They can check your reservation details and often manually add the KTN for you.
Contact TSA/CBP: In rare cases, there might be an issue with your Global Entry membership itself. You can verify your status on the TTP website or contact TSA/CBP if needed.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the expedited security and customs benefits that your Global Entry membership provides with American Airlines!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find my Global Entry number if I lost my card?
You can find your Global Entry number (PASSID/KTN) by logging into your account on the official Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website (ttp.dhs.gov).
How to ensure my name matches my Global Entry information for American Airlines?
When booking or updating your American Airlines profile, make sure the name you provide (first, middle, last) is an exact match to the name on your Global Entry membership. This includes any hyphens or suffixes.
How to add Global Entry to an American Airlines booking made by a travel agent?
Tip: Break down complex paragraphs step by step.
If you booked through a travel agent or a third-party website, you might need to contact American Airlines customer service directly via phone or chat to have your Global Entry KTN added to your reservation.
How to add Global Entry for multiple passengers on one American Airlines reservation?
Each individual passenger on a reservation must have their own Global Entry membership (and thus their own KTN) to receive TSA PreCheck benefits. You'll need to enter each KTN separately for each eligible traveler in their respective passenger information fields. Children 12 and under may accompany an enrolled adult.
How to know if my Global Entry membership is active and valid?
You can check the status of your Global Entry membership by logging into your account on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website (ttp.dhs.gov). It will show your membership's expiration date.
How to update my Global Entry number on an American Airlines reservation after checking in?
While it's ideal to add your KTN before checking in, some airlines may allow you to add it at an airport kiosk or by speaking with a customer service agent at the check-in counter, who can then reprint your boarding pass.
Tip: Take notes for easier recall later.
How to get TSA PreCheck on my American Airlines boarding pass after adding my Global Entry number?
After adding your Global Entry KTN, refresh your digital boarding pass in the American Airlines app or reprint your physical boarding pass. The "TSA PreCheck" indicator should now appear.
How to contact American Airlines if my Global Entry number isn't working?
If you've followed all steps and TSA PreCheck still isn't appearing, contact American Airlines customer service by phone or through their official chat support for assistance.
How to tell the difference between my Global Entry number and a TSA PreCheck KTN?
Your Global Entry PASSID is your Known Traveler Number (KTN) for TSA PreCheck. Global Entry membership includes TSA PreCheck benefits, so you use the same 9-digit PASSID for both.
How to renew my Global Entry membership to ensure continuous benefits with American Airlines?
Global Entry memberships are valid for five years. You can renew your membership online through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website (ttp.dhs.gov) before it expires to avoid any lapse in benefits.
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