Traveling can be stressful, but technology is here to make it a little smoother. If you're flying with American Airlines, their mobile app is your best friend for a seamless journey, especially when it comes to checking in. Imagine skipping those long airport lines and having everything you need right on your phone! Ready to make your next trip a breeze? Let's dive in!
The Ultimate Guide: How to Check In for Your American Airlines Flight on the App
Checking into your American Airlines flight via their mobile app is a convenient way to save time and reduce airport stress. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from downloading the app to getting your mobile boarding pass.
Step 1: Get Ready – Download the American Airlines App
First things first, you need the American Airlines app on your smartphone. Don't have it yet? No worries, it's quick and easy!
For iPhone users:
Open the App Store.
In the search bar, type "American Airlines".
Look for the official American Airlines app (it usually has their logo).
Tap "Get" and then "Install". You might need to enter your Apple ID password or use Face ID/Touch ID.
For Android users:
Open the Google Play Store.
In the search bar, type "American Airlines".
Find the official American Airlines app.
Tap "Install".
Pro Tip: Ensure your phone has a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data) during the download and installation process.
Step 2: Open the App and Find Your Trip
Once the app is installed, open it up. You'll usually land on a home screen that might prompt you to log in or find your reservation.
If you have an AAdvantage account:
Tap "Log in" and enter your AAdvantage number/username and password.
Logging in is highly recommended as it automatically pulls up all your upcoming trips, making the check-in process even faster.
If you're checking in as a guest (without an AAdvantage account):
Look for an option like "Find Reservation" or "Check In" on the home screen.
You'll typically be asked to enter your last name and the 6-character confirmation code (also known as a Record Locator) for your flight. This code is found in your booking confirmation email.
Enter these details precisely to locate your trip.
Step 3: Initiate the Check-In Process
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Once your trip is displayed, you'll see details about your flight(s). This is where the magic begins!
Look for a prominent button or link that says "Check In" or "Start Check-in". Tap on it to begin.
Keep in mind: Online check-in for American Airlines typically opens 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure and closes 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 60 minutes before departure for international flights. If you're outside this window, the check-in option might not be available yet.
Step 4: Confirm Your Details and Travel Information
The app will now guide you through a series of screens to confirm your travel details. This is crucial for a smooth journey.
Review Passenger Information:
Verify that your name, date of birth, and any other personal details are correct.
If you're traveling with others on the same reservation, confirm their details as well.
Acknowledge Travel Requirements (especially for international flights):
You may be prompted to confirm you have the necessary travel documents (passport, visa, etc.) for your destination. Read these carefully and confirm. For some international flights or specific travel requirements, you might still need to present documents at the airport counter, even if you check in online.
Health Attestations (if applicable):
Depending on current travel regulations, you might need to confirm your health status or agree to certain health guidelines.
Step 5: Seat Selection and Baggage Declaration
This is your chance to finalize your seat and declare any bags you'll be checking.
Seat Selection (if not already assigned or if you wish to change):
The app will display the seat map for your flight.
If you have a seat assigned, you'll see it. If you wish to change it, tap on your current seat or an available seat.
Note: Some seat selections (e.g., Main Cabin Extra, Preferred Seats) may incur an additional fee. Basic Economy tickets often have seats assigned at check-in or require a fee to select in advance.
Confirm your chosen seat.
Baggage Declaration:
You'll be asked if you are checking any bags. Declare the number of bags you plan to check.
The app might provide an estimate of baggage fees based on your fare type and destination. Remember, paying for checked bags online or via the app is often cheaper than at the airport.
If you're only carrying on, simply indicate "0" checked bags.
Step 6: Final Review and Confirmation
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Almost there! This step is about reviewing everything before finalizing your check-in.
Review Summary: The app will present a summary of your flight details, seat assignment, and baggage declaration.
Agree to Terms and Conditions: You'll likely need to tick a box agreeing to American Airlines' terms and conditions for travel. Read these if you have any concerns.
Tap "Confirm Check-in" or a similar button to complete the process.
Step 7: Get Your Mobile Boarding Pass
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Congratulations! You've successfully checked in. Now it's time to get your boarding pass.
Mobile Boarding Pass Display:
Immediately after confirming check-in, your mobile boarding pass should appear on your screen. It will typically show your name, flight number, gate, seat number, and a scannable barcode.
Save to Wallet/Passbook (Highly Recommended):
Look for an option to "Add to Apple Wallet" (for iPhones) or "Save to Google Pay" / "Add to Wallet" (for Android). This is incredibly convenient as it stores your boarding pass directly in your phone's digital wallet, making it easily accessible even without an internet connection.
Email/SMS Option:
You might also have the option to email your boarding pass to yourself or send it via SMS. This can serve as a backup.
Screenshot:
As a final backup, take a screenshot of your mobile boarding pass. This ensures you have an image of it even if the app or your digital wallet malfunctions.
Remember: Your mobile boarding pass is all you need to get through security and board your flight (along with a valid photo ID).
Step 8: Additional App Features for Your Trip
The American Airlines app offers much more than just check-in!
Flight Status: Check for real-time updates on your flight's departure gate, time, and any delays.
Airport Maps: Navigate large airports with interactive maps that can show you lounge locations, gate numbers, and even restaurants.
Bag Tracking: If you checked a bag, you can often track its journey directly within the app.
Upgrade Options: See if there are opportunities to upgrade your seat or purchase Wi-Fi.
Customer Support: Access chat support or contact numbers if you encounter any issues.
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| How To Check Into Flight On American Airlines App |
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to access my booking confirmation code?
Your 6-character booking confirmation code (also called a Record Locator) is typically found in the confirmation email you received after booking your flight.
How to check in for multiple passengers on one reservation?
QuickTip: Repetition reinforces learning.
When you initiate check-in for your reservation, the app will usually display all passengers linked to that booking, allowing you to check them all in at once.
How to change my seat after checking in on the app?
After checking in, you can usually still change your seat via the "Your Trips" section in the app. Look for an option to "Change Seats" within your flight details. If changes are permitted and seats are available, you can select a new one.
How to add checked bags if I didn't declare them during app check-in?
You can typically add and pay for checked bags through the app's "Your Trips" section before arriving at the airport. Alternatively, you can do so at an American Airlines self-service kiosk or the baggage drop counter at the airport.
How to get a physical boarding pass after checking in on the app?
Even after checking in on the app, you can still get a physical boarding pass at the airport. You can print one at an American Airlines self-service kiosk using your confirmation code or by visiting the airline's check-in counter.
How to troubleshoot if the American Airlines app is not working during check-in?
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
If the app isn't working, first try closing and reopening it, checking your internet connection, or restarting your phone. Ensure your app is updated to the latest version. If problems persist, you can check in via the American Airlines website (aa.com) on a browser, or at an airport kiosk/counter.
How to use a mobile boarding pass at airport security and the gate?
Simply open your mobile boarding pass on your phone (from the app or your digital wallet) and present the barcode to be scanned by TSA agents at security checkpoints and American Airlines staff at the boarding gate. Ensure your screen brightness is up and the barcode is fully visible.
How to check in for an international flight with visa requirements on the app?
While you can often initiate check-in for international flights on the app, if your destination requires a visa or other specific documents, American Airlines may still require you to present these at the airport counter for verification before they can fully process your check-in and issue your boarding pass.
How to retrieve a boarding pass if my phone battery dies at the airport?
If your phone battery dies, you won't be able to access your mobile boarding pass. In this situation, you'll need to go to an American Airlines self-service kiosk or the check-in counter to print a physical boarding pass. It's always a good idea to have a portable charger or a printed backup.
How to check in if I have a special service request (e.g., traveling with a pet or special assistance)?
For certain special service requests, such as traveling with a pet in the cabin or requiring special assistance, while you might be able to start the check-in process on the app, you may still be required to complete some steps or verify details at the airport check-in counter. Always check American Airlines' specific guidelines for your particular request.
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