How early can I check in at American Airlines?
  • 13 Jul, 2024
  • Travel tips
  • Travomint

How early can I check in at American Airlines?

To board a flight with American Airlines, the passenger needs to complete the check-in and receive the boarding pass. The earliest you can check in for the flight is 24 hours before the departure through the web check-in, which is available on the mobile application and official webpage. However, you need to keep in mind that online check-in closes 45 minutes prior to the flight time for a domestic flight and 90 minutes before for any international flights. You can also check in through the airport, which starts 2 to 3 hours prior to the flight, depending on whether you are flying domestically or internationally.

How far in advance do I need to check-in for an international flight with American Airlines?

For international flights, the check-in time is a little early in comparison to domestic flights. If you have no idea "When to check in for an international flight?," then the online check-in starts 24 hours before departure, but through the airport, you need to arrive at least 3 hours in advance of your flight's timing. However, you must remember that the online check-in for international flights closes 90 minutes prior to the flight's time.

American Airlines check-in policy

Before completing the check-in process, a passenger must go through the American Airlines guidelines to get better information regarding their rules and regulations. Following is a list of a few main points from the airline's policy regarding check-in:

  • The online check-in at American Airlines starts 24 hours before the flight's timing.
  • No passenger is allowed to check in for their flight when there are less than 45 minutes left for the departure.
  • The seat selection is free during check-in, but you must select from available seats.
  • You can use the online method, Kiosk device, and airline counter to complete the check-in.
  • If you have completed the check-in and want to add additional baggage, then cancel your check-in and start again with the extra baggage.
  • After completing the check-in, you will also receive express bag tags, which you need to attach to your baggage.
  • A passenger may not have to take a printout of the boarding pass and show the e-boarding pass at the airport when flying without any baggage.

Modes to check in with American Airlines:

There are three possible modes through which you can check in for a flight with American Airlines. Read the given information to learn more about these modes and the complete process for getting the boarding pass:

Through web check-in - The online method is the simplest and fastest way to get the boarding pass for your flight. The web check-in option is available on the website and the mobile application. You need to write down the details of your flight, and you can also add any services you choose. The instructions to check in online are given below:

  • Open the American Airlines website or the mobile application.
  • Click on the "Check-in" button from the options.
  • Enter the "Passenger Surname" and "Ticket/PNR Number" as described on the ticket.
  • Choose a seat based on availability and follow the steps on your display. 
  • After that, save the boarding pass on your device.                                                                                                                                                                      

Through Self-check-in Kiosk - You can also receive the boarding pass for an American Airlines flight and avoid standing in the long queues at the check-in counter through the self-check-in Kiosk. Fill out the relevant flight and baggage details, then select from the available seats. The kiosk will complete the check-in and print your boarding pass.

Through the airport counter - When you are unable to check in through any of the other modes, the last option is to check in at the airport counter. Provide the requested booking information to the executive, and they will instantly send you the boarding pass. The live person will also help with any queries and get you the answers to all your questions.

Does American Airlines have a 45-minute rule?

The minimum time provided to the passengers for check-in is 45 minutes, and no one is allowed to check in after that. Any passenger who fails to check-in within the provided time will lose their seat and not be able to board the flight. If you require further information or help with something, then get in touch with a customer service executive.