Navigating air travel can sometimes feel like a complex puzzle, but with the right tools, it becomes a breeze. One of the most convenient ways to streamline your journey with American Airlines is by utilizing their mobile app for check-in. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you’re ready for your flight with just a few taps on your phone.
Your Ultimate Guide: Checking In on the American Airlines App
Are you ready to skip those long airport lines and get to your gate faster? The American Airlines app is your secret weapon! Let's dive in and make your travel experience seamless.
Step 1: Get the App and Log In (Your Journey Begins Here!)
First things first, you'll need the American Airlines app on your smartphone.
Download it: If you haven't already, head to your device's app store (App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android) and search for "American Airlines." Download and install the official app.
Open the App: Once installed, tap the American Airlines icon to launch it.
Log In or Find Your Trip:
If you have an AAdvantage® account: This is the easiest way! Log in using your AAdvantage® number or username and password. Your upcoming trips will automatically appear on the home screen.
If you don't have an AAdvantage® account or prefer not to log in: Look for an option like "Find a Trip" or "Check In." You'll then need to enter your six-character confirmation code (also known as your record locator) and your last name. This code is found in your booking confirmation email.
Pro-Tip: Make sure your app is updated to the latest version for the best experience and all the newest features!
Step 2: Initiate the Check-In Process
Once you've located your trip in the app, you'll see a prominent "Check In" button.
Tap 'Check In': This will begin the check-in flow for your selected flight. The app will guide you through a series of prompts.
Timing is Key: Remember, you can typically check in starting 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure.
For domestic flights within the U.S., check-in usually closes 45 minutes before departure.
For international flights, check-in typically closes 60 to 90 minutes before departure, but it's always best to check specific requirements for your destination.
Step 3: Confirm Passenger Details and Travel Information
This is a crucial step where you verify everything is correct.
Review Your Information: The app will display your name, flight details, and destination. Double-check that all information is accurate and matches your government-issued ID.
Acknowledge Important Notices: You'll likely need to acknowledge various notices, such as hazardous materials regulations and TSA PreCheck information (if applicable). Read these carefully.
International Travel Documents: If you're on an international flight, the app may prompt you to confirm or enter passport and visa information. Ensure these details are exact as a mismatch can cause issues at the airport.
Step 4: Seat Selection (or Confirmation)
Whether you've already chosen a seat or need to, this step has you covered.
Confirm Your Seat: If you already have a seat assignment, the app will display it. You can choose to keep it or potentially change it if other seats are available.
Select or Change Your Seat: If you don't have a seat assigned, or you wish to change yours, tap on the seat map. Available seats will be highlighted. Some fares (like Basic Economy) might have limitations on free seat selection, and you may need to pay a fee for certain seats.
Upgrade Options: This is also where you might see options to upgrade your seat, perhaps to Premium Economy or First Class, if available for purchase.
Step 5: Bag It Up! (Checked Baggage Declaration)
Planning to check bags? The app makes it easy to declare them and even pay fees in advance.
Declare Checked Bags: The app will ask if you are checking any bags. Indicate the number of bags you intend to check.
Pay Baggage Fees: If applicable, the app will show you the baggage fees. You can pay these fees directly through the app using a credit card. Paying online often saves you time and sometimes even money compared to paying at the airport.
Express Bag Tags: For many airports, after paying for your bags in the app, you can use self-service kiosks at the airport to scan your mobile boarding pass and print your bag tags quickly. Then, simply drop your tagged bags at the bag drop counter. This is a massive time-saver!
Step 6: Get Your Mobile Boarding Pass
This is the moment you've been waiting for – your ticket to ride!
Generate Boarding Pass: Once all the previous steps are completed and confirmed, the app will generate your mobile boarding pass.
Access and Save:
Your boarding pass will be readily accessible within the American Airlines app.
You'll typically have the option to add it to your phone's digital wallet (e.g., Apple Wallet for iPhone, Google Wallet for Android). This is highly recommended for quick access, even without an internet connection.
You might also be able to email yourself a copy.
What it looks like: Your mobile boarding pass will display your flight number, gate, seat number, boarding group, and a scannable barcode.
Step 7: Post-Check-In Features and What to Expect
The app continues to be a useful tool even after you've checked in.
Flight Status Updates: The app provides real-time updates on your flight status, including gate changes, boarding times, and any delays or cancellations. Enable push notifications for the most immediate alerts.
Interactive Terminal Maps: Many airports have interactive maps within the app, helping you navigate to your gate, find Admirals Club® lounges, or locate other amenities.
Track Your Bag: If you've checked bags, you can track their journey within the app, giving you peace of mind from check-in to baggage claim.
In-Flight Entertainment: On Wi-Fi-equipped flights, you can often use the American Airlines app to access free in-flight entertainment (movies, TV shows, music) without purchasing Wi-Fi.
Potential Hiccups and Solutions
While the American Airlines app check-in is generally smooth, sometimes issues arise:
Name Mismatch: Your booking name must exactly match your government-issued ID. Even minor typos can prevent app check-in. Double-check your booking.
Payment Issues: If your ticket payment is pending or unconfirmed, check-in might be blocked.
Passport/Visa Problems: For international travel, incomplete, expired, or missing passport/visa details will halt online check-in.
Special Services: If you require special assistance (e.g., traveling with a pet, unaccompanied minor, medical equipment), you might need to check in at the airport counter.
Group Bookings: Very large group bookings might require airport check-in.
Codeshare Flights: If your itinerary includes flights operated by other airlines (codeshare partners), online check-in might need to be done on the operating carrier's platform or at the airport.
Technical Glitches: Occasionally, the app or website may experience temporary technical issues. Try restarting the app, clearing its cache, or switching to the American Airlines website (aa.com).
Check-in Window: Trying to check in too early (more than 24 hours out) or too late (after the cutoff time) will result in an error.
If you encounter any persistent issues, it's best to contact American Airlines customer service (you can find contact options within the app under "Help" or "Contact Us") or proceed to the airport with ample time to check in at a kiosk or counter.
10 Related FAQs
How to I find my American Airlines confirmation code?
Your six-character confirmation code (also called a record locator) is located in your flight booking confirmation email. It's a combination of letters and numbers.
How to add bags when checking in on the American Airlines app?
During the app check-in process, after confirming your details and seat, you will be prompted to declare any checked bags and pay associated fees.
How to get a mobile boarding pass after checking in on the American Airlines app?
After completing the check-in steps, the app will automatically generate your mobile boarding pass. You'll then typically have the option to save it to your phone's digital wallet (Apple Wallet, Google Wallet).
How to change my seat after checking in on the American Airlines app?
Yes, after checking in, you can often still change your seat within the app if other seats are available. Go to your trip details, and look for a "Change Seat" option. Fees may apply depending on your fare type and the seat chosen.
How to check in for an international flight on the American Airlines app?
The process is largely the same as domestic flights. However, you will be required to input or verify your passport and visa details (if applicable) during the check-in flow. Ensure you have these documents readily available.
How to check my flight status on the American Airlines app?
Your personalized home screen in the app will typically show your upcoming flight. Tap on it for live updates, including gate changes, boarding times, and any delays. You can also use the "Flight Status" feature on the app's main menu.
How to use my mobile boarding pass at the airport?
At airport security checkpoints and at the boarding gate, simply present your mobile device with the barcode of your boarding pass clearly visible for scanning.
How to track my checked bags using the American Airlines app?
Once your bags are checked, go to your trip details in the app. There should be a "Track My Bags" or "Bags" section that provides real-time updates on their location.
How to deal with American Airlines app check-in problems?
First, double-check your name and confirmation code for accuracy. If problems persist, try restarting the app, clearing its cache, or using the American Airlines website (aa.com) for check-in. If still unable, contact American Airlines customer service or proceed to the airport for assistance.
How to add my American Airlines boarding pass to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet?
After successfully checking in on the app, you will see an option to "Add to Apple Wallet" (for iOS) or "Save to Google Pay/Wallet" (for Android). Tap this button and follow the prompts to add the boarding pass to your digital wallet for easy access.
