American Airlines check-in is a straightforward and flexible process, offering passengers multiple convenient options to prepare for their journey. Travelers can check in online, through the American Airlines mobile app, at airport self-service kiosks, or with a customer service agent at the airport counter. Check-in opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure time and remains available until 45 minutes before domestic flights and 90 minutes before international flights. The most convenient method is online or mobile check-in. To do this, visit aa.com or use the official app, enter your record locator (confirmation number) and last name, and follow the steps to confirm your flight, select or change your seat, add baggage, and get your mobile boarding pass. The boarding pass can be downloaded to your phone, emailed, or printed at your convenience. Mobile check-in is ideal for travelers without checked bags, allowing them to skip lines and proceed directly to security and the gate.

If you need to check luggage, you can still check in online and drop your bags at the baggage drop counter, which opens three hours before departure and closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and one hour before international flights. American Airlines also offers self-service kiosks at most major airports, where you can print your boarding pass, check in, and tag your bags without waiting in line. This is especially useful during peak travel times. For customers traveling in First or Business Class, or those with AAdvantage elite status, priority check-in counters are available, making the process even quicker and more comfortable.

Many passengers praise the American Airlines app for being reliable and easy to use, offering features like real-time flight updates, gate information, and notifications when check-in becomes available. During check-in, you can also input your frequent flyer number, confirm passport and visa details for international flights, and purchase extras like preferred seats, extra legroom, or upgrades, depending on your fare class and route. For families and groups, checking in early helps ensure better seating options and reduces the risk of being split up. American Airlines also provides TSA PreCheck and Global Entry integration, so passengers with those benefits can enjoy a smoother security process.

Airport check-in counters are still available for those who need personal assistance, have special requirements, or are traveling with pets, oversized luggage, or unaccompanied minors. The airline recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights to allow enough time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening. Boarding typically begins 30 to 50 minutes before departure, and gates close 15 minutes before takeoff, so even if you’ve checked in, arriving at the gate early is essential.

In summary, American Airlines check-in opens 24 hours before flight time and offers flexible options via app, website, kiosk, or counter. Checking in early helps secure preferred seating, avoid long lines, and ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience with American Airlines.