Navigating airport security can be a breeze, or it can be a nightmare. If you've ever watched with envy as certain travelers zip through dedicated lanes, keeping their shoes on and laptops in their bags, chances are they're enjoying the perks of TSA PreCheck. And if you're flying American Airlines, you'll definitely want to know how to add this valuable status to your reservation to experience that same convenience.
But wait, are you already a TSA PreCheck member? This guide assumes you've successfully applied for and received your Known Traveler Number (KTN). If not, you'll need to complete that crucial first step before proceeding! (We'll touch upon how to get your KTN later in the FAQs).
Let's dive into the step-by-step process of adding your TSA PreCheck to your American Airlines flights, ensuring a smoother journey through security.
Step 1: Locate Your Known Traveler Number (KTN)
Before you do anything, you need your KTN! This is a unique, 9-digit alphanumeric code that the TSA provides once your PreCheck application is approved. It typically starts with "TT" if you applied directly for TSA PreCheck. If you have Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, your membership number (often called a PASSID) also functions as your KTN.
Where to find it:
Approval email/letter: The TSA sends an approval notification with your KTN.
TSA Enrollment by IDEMIA website: Log in to your account where you applied.
Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website: If you have Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, you can find your PASSID there.
Back of your Global Entry/NEXUS/SENTRI card: Your PASSID is usually in the top left corner.
Pro-Tip: Write it down! Keep it in your wallet or a secure note on your phone for easy access when booking flights or managing reservations.
Step 2: Adding KTN During New Booking on American Airlines
This is the easiest and most recommended way to ensure your TSA PreCheck is applied.
Sub-heading: Via American Airlines Website (aa.com)
Start your flight search: Go to aa.com and begin the process of booking your flight as usual, selecting your origin, destination, dates, and number of passengers.
Enter Passenger Details: As you proceed through the booking flow, you'll reach a section to enter passenger information. This is where you'll input your name, date of birth, and contact details.
Locate the "Known Traveler Number" field: Look for a specific field labeled "Known Traveler Number" or "TSA PreCheck" or "Trusted Traveler Number." It's usually within the "Secure Traveler" or "Passenger Information" section.
Enter your KTN: Carefully type in your 9-digit KTN (or PASSID). Double-check for any typos! Even a single incorrect digit will prevent your PreCheck from being applied.
Complete the booking: Continue with the rest of the booking process, including seat selection and payment.
Sub-heading: Via American Airlines Mobile App
Open the app and search for flights: Similar to the website, start your flight search within the American Airlines app.
Proceed to passenger details: Once you've selected your flights, you'll be prompted to enter passenger information.
Find the KTN field: Look for the "Known Traveler Number" or "TSA PreCheck" field within the passenger details. It might be under "Security Information" or a similar heading.
Input your KTN: Enter your KTN precisely.
Finalize your booking: Complete your purchase.
Important Note: If you're logged into your AAdvantage® account and have previously saved your KTN to your profile (which we'll cover next), it might automatically populate during the booking process. Always verify it's there!
Step 3: Adding KTN to an Existing American Airlines Reservation
Forgot to add it during booking? No problem! You can easily add your KTN to an already booked flight.
Sub-heading: Via American Airlines Website (aa.com)
Go to "Manage Trips": On the aa.com homepage, click on the "Manage trips/Check-in" tab.
Retrieve your reservation: Enter your first name, last name, and the six-digit confirmation code for your flight. Click "Find trip."
Access Passenger Information: Once your reservation is displayed, look for an option to "Edit Passenger Information," "Passenger Summary," or "Security Information."
Add/Edit KTN: Within this section, you should find a field for "Known Traveler Number" or "TSA PreCheck." Enter or update your KTN here.
Save Changes: Be sure to save any changes you make to ensure your KTN is applied.
Sub-heading: Via American Airlines Mobile App
Log in or find your trip: Open the American Airlines app. If you're logged in, your upcoming trips should be visible. If not, select "Find Trip" and enter your confirmation code and last name.
Select your trip: Tap on the specific trip you want to update.
Navigate to Passenger Details/Security Information: Look for options like "Edit" within the passenger information section or a dedicated "Security information" tab.
Enter your KTN: Locate the "Known Traveler Number" field and input your KTN.
Save: Don't forget to save your changes!
Critical Reminder: Ensure the name on your American Airlines reservation exactly matches the name associated with your TSA PreCheck (as it appears on your ID used for the application). Even minor discrepancies (e.g., missing middle name, hyphenation) can prevent the PreCheck indicator from appearing on your boarding pass.
Step 4: Adding KTN to Your American Airlines AAdvantage® Profile (For Future Flights!)
This is the smartest way to ensure TSA PreCheck is automatically applied to all your future American Airlines bookings, provided you're logged into your AAdvantage® account when booking.
Log in to your AAdvantage® account: Go to aa.com and log in with your AAdvantage® number or username and password.
Access your profile: Hover over your name in the top right corner and click on "Account" or "Profile."
Find "Secure Traveler" or "Personal Information": Look for a section related to "Secure Traveler," "Information and password," or "Personal Information."
Enter your KTN: Within this section, you'll find a field specifically for "Known Traveler Number" or "Trusted Traveler Number." Enter your KTN here.
Save Changes: Crucially, save your profile changes. This will store your KTN permanently in your AAdvantage® account.
Now, whenever you book a flight while logged into your AAdvantage® account, your KTN should automatically populate, and you should see the TSA PreCheck indicator on your boarding pass.
Step 5: Verify TSA PreCheck on Your Boarding Pass
This is the final and most important step. Even after adding your KTN, it's essential to confirm that it has been successfully applied to your flight.
Check your digital boarding pass: If you're using the American Airlines app or a mobile boarding pass, look for the "TSA PreCheck" indicator. It's usually a small logo or text near your name.
Check your printed boarding pass: If you print your boarding pass at home or at an airport kiosk, ensure the "TSA PreCheck" designation is clearly visible.
What to do if it's missing:
Re-check your KTN: Go back to your reservation (Step 3) or AAdvantage® profile (Step 4) and verify your KTN is entered correctly and that your name matches exactly.
Re-issue your boarding pass: Sometimes simply re-checking in or re-issuing your boarding pass online or through the app can make the PreCheck indicator appear after updating your KTN.
Contact American Airlines Customer Service: If the problem persists, call American Airlines customer service at 1-800-433-7300 (or the appropriate international number). Explain that you have TSA PreCheck and need your KTN added to your reservation.
Visit the Airport Ticket Counter: As a last resort, if you're at the airport and still don't have the PreCheck indicator, go to the American Airlines ticket counter. They can often add your KTN to your reservation and re-print your boarding pass. Do this well in advance of your flight to avoid stress.
Remember, while TSA PreCheck greatly enhances your airport experience, the TSA still employs unpredictable security measures, and no one is guaranteed expedited screening every single time. However, ensuring your KTN is correctly linked is the best way to maximize your chances!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to Apply for TSA PreCheck?
To apply for TSA PreCheck, you need to complete an online application, schedule an in-person appointment at an enrollment center for fingerprinting and identity verification, and pay the application fee. Once approved (typically within 3-5 days), you'll receive your Known Traveler Number (KTN).
How to Find My Known Traveler Number (KTN)?
You can find your KTN in the approval email or letter you received from TSA. If you can't locate it, you can retrieve it by logging into the website of the enrollment provider you used (e.g., IDEMIA) or the Department of Homeland Security's Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website.
How to Add TSA PreCheck to an American Airlines Reservation After Booking?
You can add your KTN to an existing American Airlines reservation by logging into your account on aa.com or the American Airlines app, going to "Manage Trips," selecting your flight, and then finding the "Edit Passenger Information" or "Security Information" section to input your KTN.
How to Ensure TSA PreCheck Appears on My American Airlines Boarding Pass?
To ensure TSA PreCheck appears, make sure your KTN is accurately entered into your reservation or AAdvantage® profile, and that the name on your reservation exactly matches the name on your TSA PreCheck application/ID. Always verify the "TSA PreCheck" indicator on your boarding pass before heading to security.
How to Contact American Airlines Customer Service for TSA PreCheck Issues?
You can contact American Airlines customer service at 1-800-433-7300 within the U.S. for assistance with adding your KTN or resolving any discrepancies. Be prepared with your confirmation code and KTN.
How to Renew TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck membership is valid for five years. You can typically renew online through your enrollment provider's website, often at a slightly reduced fee. You may be required to visit an enrollment center again for some renewals.
How to Differentiate Between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?
TSA PreCheck provides expedited security screening for domestic flights within the U.S. Global Entry includes all the benefits of TSA PreCheck plus expedited customs processing when re-entering the U.S. from international travel. Global Entry is generally recommended for frequent international travelers.
How to Use TSA PreCheck at the Airport?
Once your boarding pass displays the "TSA PreCheck" indicator, look for the dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes at the airport security checkpoint. In these lanes, you typically do not need to remove shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops from bags, or 3-1-1 liquids.
How to Add TSA PreCheck for Family Members on American Airlines?
Each individual traveler, regardless of age, needs their own KTN to receive TSA PreCheck. Children 12 and under traveling on the same reservation as a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck can often use the PreCheck lane, but children aged 13-17 may or may not automatically receive it on their boarding pass and it's best they have their own.
How to Fix a Mismatch Between My Name on My Reservation and My KTN?
If your name on your reservation doesn't exactly match your KTN, contact American Airlines customer service to have them update the name on your reservation to match your KTN. This often involves ensuring middle names, hyphens, or suffixes are consistent with your TSA PreCheck record.
