How to Check-In with American Airlines: Essential Information for Passengers

Written By Amy Lancelotte

Last Updated: November 15, 2024

According to a study by Airlines for America, up to 88% of US air passengers completed check-in electronically in 2023. More than 50% of passengers use a mobile device to check in.

For American Airlines check-in, passengers have a few options available, including the AA app, the AA website, curbside check-in, and in-person services or self-service kiosks at departure airports. 

In some cases, passengers have had issues with American Airlines online check-in, and one user from Trustpilot stated:

Terrible website. Unable to check in. Puts me into an endless loop of going back to check-in. - July 28, 2024

To make sure you can check in efficiently and don’t run into trouble like the passenger above, here’s everything you should know about the American Airlines check-in procedures:

Why is American Airlines Check-in Important?

American Airlines check-in is essential as it confirms passenger details, secures a seat, confirms luggage, and provides boarding passes. If you don’t check in for your American Airlines flight, you simply won’t be able to board your plane.

Get Your Boarding Pass

Source: aa.com

At the end of the American Airlines check-in process, whether you do American Airlines online check-in or do it in person, you’ll receive either an electronic boarding pass or a printed one. This will be scanned to board the aircraft and at security.

Select Seats

If you didn’t select your seat at the time of booking, you can do so at check-in.

Upgrades to business class and premium seats in the main cabin are chargeable.

Check Your Bags

If you weren’t sure of your luggage requirements when you booked the flight, you can add checked bags at check-in. You’ll need to pay for this privilege. In February 2024, CNN reported that American Airlines now has the most expensive checked bag fees in the US after a 33% rise. That’s why it’s crucial to add checked luggage during the American Airlines online check-in process as you’ll save $5 on domestic trips.

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Check-in and Arrival - How to Check-in For Your American Airlines Flight

In April 2024, American Airlines released an internal memo confirming they are continuing the process of implementing new and more streamlined self-service check-in kiosks at airports. According to the report, all passengers need to do is scan their boarding pass at the machine and their luggage tags will pop out automatically. This change is due to the success of the test program the airline launched at both Dallas-Forth Worth Airport and Miami Airport. The memo stated:

We have seen success with the new kiosks at DFW and MIA already and look forward to rolling out to additional hubs, gateways, and select stations this summer. We also have new express bag tag kiosks, which allow customers who have pre-paid their bags during check-in to print their bag tags in under 30 seconds.

Before your flight, consider checking in as early as possible as this has certain benefits:

• Seat selection: Early check-in allows you to choose from a wider range of available seats if you aren’t happy with the first one you picked.
• Save time: By checking in online, you can bypass the check-in counter at the airport and proceed directly to security if you have no checked baggage. If you do have hold luggage, you can use the new, faster kiosks to avoid lines.
• Reduce your risk of involuntary bumping: American Airlines will typically prioritize boarding for passengers who check in early, decreasing the chance of being involuntarily bumped from an overbooked flight.
• Access to upgrades: Early check-in can improve your chances of receiving available upgrades. Doing your American Airlines check-in late could mean all the upgrades have already been taken.

American Airlines Check-in Policy

AA passengers have the option to check in online 24 hours before the scheduled flight. Passengers can also check in once they arrive at the airport. Here’s what you need to know:

• Timing: For flights within the US, check in at least 45 minutes before departure; for international flights, at least 60 minutes before departure.
• Baggage check-in: Bags must be checked in at least 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights.
• Boarding: To be able to board an American Airlines flight, you need to be at the gate no less than 15 minutes before domestic flights and no less than 30 minutes before international flights.

Check-in Rules and Restrictions for AA Passengers

1. Identification requirements: A valid photo ID is required for domestic travel; a valid passport and any necessary visas are needed for international travel.
2. Group check-in policy: Travelers in groups of ten or more are encouraged to check in earlier, as check-in can take longer for large parties.
3. Special assistance check-in: Passengers needing assistance (e.g., wheelchair service) should arrive earlier and notify the airline in advance for smoother check-in and boarding.

Your American Airlines Check-in Options

To complete the American Airlines check-in process you have four options: in-person, curbside (at some airports), online, and using the mobile app.

How does online check-in work for American Airlines?

To check-in online, simply click on the link that American Airlines will send as a reminder or go directly to the AA website within 24 hours (and not less than 45/90 minutes) from the flight time.

Source: aa.com

Enter your last name and confirmation code to pull up your reservation. Then follow the prompts. Alternatively, you can log in to see all your available trips and check in from there.

Using this option, you’ll receive an electronic boarding pass that will function exactly like the traditional paper ones. You will need to scan it to drop off your luggage, when you get to the security line, and when it’s time to board the flight.

AA App Check-in

Source: aa.com

If you already have the app downloaded, use this to complete your check-in. It will save a bit of time and store your boarding passes easily. Boarding passes in the app are also electronic and can be used as normal. Plus, you can see your gate and get updates all in the same place.

Curbside Check-in

At many US airports, American Airlines offers curbside check-in for passengers with an electronic (scannable) ticket. This option only applies to domestic flights and you must pay for any baggage fees with a debit or credit card.

Once you get to the airport, the staff from Bags Inc. will ask for your photo ID and one of either your destination, confirmation code, or flight number. 

Note that if you want to use this service, American Airlines recommends that you allow an extra 45 minutes.

Additionally, you cannot use AA curbside check-in if you’re flying with a pet, checking in an unaccompanied minor, or carrying a firearm in your luggage. You’ll be charged an additional $3 for this convenience.

American Airlines Airport Check-in

You can always check in at the airport instead of online. This is done face-to-face with an airline representative at the American Airlines desk or an AA airport kiosk. While this does potentially involve longer wait times, it’s useful if you don’t have access to a computer or cell phone or when you experience issues with online check-in.

Also, at select airports, you’ll find kiosks available to check in without waiting in line. Simply pull up your reservation using your reference number or ID document and:

1. Confirm that you’re not traveling with hazardous or banned items.
2. Confirm your seats.
3. Add paid luggage or double-check your prepaid luggage and print tags.
4. Attach the tags to your bags.
5. Head to the bag drop.

How to Manage American Airlines Bookings

Like checking in online, you can either use the app or the website to manage your American Airlines booking. Log in or enter your details to pull everything up, as if you were checking in online. From there, you can make adjustments like adding bags or seats, change your flight, and see any travel alerts.

Choosing your seat

Source: aa.com

Selecting a regular seat is free of charge when you book with American Airlines. However, if you want a Preferred or a Main Cabin Extra Seat, you’ll need to pay for this. When you check in, if other seats are available, you’ll have the choice to change your seat and pay the difference if applicable.

When Can Passengers Check-in for an American Airlines flight?

American Airlines does not offer early check-in. For online check-in the soonest you can get your boarding pass is 24 hours before the flight. Typically, the AA counter for check-in at the airport will be available 3 hours before the flight departure.

For domestic flights:

• Online check-in is available between 24 hours and 45 minutes from the flight’s departure time. 
• Airport (in-person) check-in must be done at least 45 minutes before departure.

For international flights:

• Online check-in is open from 24 hours to 90 minutes before the scheduled departure.
• Airport check-in can only be done with at least 60 minutes to spare before departure.

When Should American Airlines Passengers Get to the Airport?

AA passengers have to check in at least 45 minutes before a domestic flight and 90 minutes before an international one. As a result, American Airlines suggests that you get to the airport at least 2 hours before the departure time for US trips and 3 hours before when flying internationally. 

American Airlines Airports with Earlier Check-in Deadlines

While the suggested American Airlines check-in time is a good guide, certain airports have different rules. Here’s a summary:

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Why Can’t You Check-in to Your American Airlines Flight Online?

Certain scenarios do not allow online check-in:

• Your first flight is not operated by American Airlines, American Eagle, Iberia, or British Airways.
• You are traveling with a pet.
• Your destination requires a visa.
• Your flight departs in fewer than 45 minutes (domestic) or 90 minutes (international).

If your flight isn’t allowing you to check in online, head to the airport early and check in at the desk or the self-service kiosks.

What Happens When You Miss the Check-in Window

If you don’t check in on time, you may lose your seat. The airline often has stand-by passengers waiting, so if they don’t think you’re taking the flight, they will give your seat away. If you are already at the airport, check in ASAP as you may still be able to board the flight, depending on the situation.

Expert Advice for American Airlines Check-Ins

Here are some tips to keep the American Airlines check-in process as seamless as possible:

1. Check-in early: Start check-in as soon as it's available (24 hours before departure) to get better seating options and a lower risk of involuntary bumping.
2. Use the mobile app: American Airlines’ app allows easy mobile check-in, updates on flight status, and digital boarding passes, reducing the need for paper.
3. Check baggage policies: Review weight and size limits for checked and carry-on baggage to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
4. Consider TSA PreCheck or Global Entry: For US flights, enrolling in TSA PreCheck can speed up the security process; Global Entry can expedite reentry for international flights.
5. Double-check travel documents: For international flights, ensure your passport, visa, and any other travel documents are valid and accessible to avoid delays.
6. Arrive at the gate early: Even after check-in, be at the gate with ample time to account for last-minute boarding changes or announcements. Make sure you arrive at the airport within the recommended timeframes (2 hours ahead for domestic, 3 hours ahead for international).
7. Monitor flight status: Check your flight status regularly for any last-minute delays, gate changes, or flight cancellations, which may impact check-in plans.
8. Prepare for self-service kiosks: If you don’t check in online, kiosks at the airport can be a fast way to complete the process without waiting in long lines.

Keep confirmation and contact information handy: Having your reservation confirmation number and contact info updated in your profile ensures smoother assistance if needed.