FAQs
You'll need a valid photo ID accepted by the TSA (like a driver's license or other government-issued ID) for domestic travel and a valid passport or visa, and any travel documents required by your international destination.
Why is American Airlines saying I need to check in with an agent? ›
When you make a change to a reservation or there was a disruption to your travel plans, some tickets may need to be re-issued by the airline. If this is the case, you normally wouldn't be able to print a boarding pass at all, but online check-in or an airport kiosk may print a document that says to see an agent.
When can I check in online with American Airlines? ›
Check-in times. You can check in online or from the app starting 24 hours before and up to 45 minutes before your flight (90 for international). To check bags or check in at the airport, you must be there a certain amount of time before scheduled departure: Within the U.S. – 45 minutes.
How do you check in for your flight on the American Airlines app? ›
How to check in on American airlines app?
- Download the official application of American Airlines.
- Click on the Login option and add the login credentials to open the account.
- Select Check-in and add the confirmation number and the last name.
- Follow the instructions appearing on the screen and complete the process.
In-person at a staffed check-in counter at airport
- Passport (when traveling internationally)
- Flight information. Paper ticket (less and less common), OR. E-ticket with a confirmation number—usually sent via email if ticket is purchased online or through a travel agency, OR. Printed itinerary with a confirmation number.
Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint
- Driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) ...
- State-Issued Drivers License or State-Issued ID.
- U.S. passport.
- U.S. passport card.
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
A: You are not eligible to use Online Flight Check-In if: The first flight for which you are checking in is NOT operated by American Airlines or American Eagle. You are traveling on a military fare. You are traveling with a pet.
What happens if I can't check-in online for a flight? ›
So if you can't check in online, it may be a sign that you're being held back for a later flight. In some cases, a space can become available at the last minute, which is why you're then able to check in at the airport as if nothing's happened.
Can I check in at the airport instead of online? ›
However, if a passenger does not have an internet-capable device, it is usually possible to check in at a special machine in the airport. A big advantage of checking-in in advance is that you can choose your seat. Whether this reservation is associated with additional costs depends on the airline.
Do I still need a boarding pass if I check in online? ›
Generally speaking, we like to err on the side of caution and suggest you print out your boarding pass, even if you already checked in online and have a mobile version on your phone.
You must check in at least 60 minutes before departure for international flights and 45 minutes for domestic flights within the U.S. Also, make sure you arrive at the gate 15 minutes before departure or you may lose your seat.
What does SSSS mean on boarding pass? ›
An SSSS code on a boarding pass stands for “Secondary Security Screening Selection.” While somewhat of an annoyance, this code only means you have been flagged to undergo additional security screening procedures.
Is check-in the same as boarding pass? ›
A boarding pass is a document provided by an airline during check-in, giving a passenger permission to board the airplane for a particular flight. At a minimum, it identifies the passenger, the flight number, and the date and scheduled time for departure. Boarding Passes are always required to board a flight.
How early can you get a boarding pass for American Airlines? ›
Yes, you may check-in for your American Airlines (AA) flight online starting 24 hours and ending 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time (depending on your departure city and destination) to receive a mobile boarding pass on your mobile device or a printable boarding pass.
How do I get my boarding pass? ›
Walk up to your airline's check-in counter and present your ID and booking number. The check-in agent will print your boarding pass for you.
What documents do I need to check in online? ›
How to check-in online for your flight. In order to check-in online you will need your flight details, your PNR (aka booking number or confirmation number) and your passport number, if you are on an international flight. You also need to know the number of bags you'll be checking in.
Why can't I check in online with American Airlines International? ›
A: You are not eligible to use Online Flight Check-In if: The first flight for which you are checking in is NOT operated by American Airlines or American Eagle. You are traveling on a military fare. You are traveling with a pet.
Should I check in 24 hours before a flight? ›
You heard that right. You should check in for your flight, the second the option becomes available (for most flights it's 24 hours before departure). When you check-in for a flight, it just puts you in the best possible position for communications with the airline.
How do I get TSA on my American boarding pass? ›
The easiest way to add PreCheck to a ticket on American Airlines is to update your AAdvantage profile with your Known Traveler Number (KTN). Log in and go to "Your Account." Choose "Information and Password," then add your PreCheck number in the KTN field in the "Secure Traveler" section.
