Missing a flight isn’t ideal, but if it happens, American Airlines offers options to help you rebook at no extra cost. Whether you’re running late or missed your flight, understanding their missed flight policy can reduce stress. The airline offers standby options and additional features to help you reach your destination efficiently. Learn more about what happens when you miss an American Airlines flight below.
What Happens if you miss your flight with American Airlines?
American Airlines aims to assist you as much as possible and offers online check-in for a smoother airport experience. If missing your flight was unavoidable, refer to the guidelines provided and request a rebooking from AA. Missed an American Airlines flight and wondering what would happen next? Continue with the details below to first understand what to do and then take action:
- The American Airlines missed flight policy applies to any segment of your flight for which you do not show up. There is an unspoken “flat tire” rule that allows you two hours from the scheduled departure time to inform the airline about your absence.
- If you notify the airline within these two hours, you will be provided with an alternative flight to your destination at no extra charge. However, you can only fly standby on a later flight if you haven’t checked your bags or if you have Elite Status in the AAdvantage program.
- To rebook any missed American Airlines flight within a short 15-minute window, connect with an airline representative at the airport. If you miss a connecting flight due to a delay caused by the airline, you will automatically be rebooked on the next available flight in the same cabin class as your original booking.
- Customers who do not show up for their American Airlines flight and fail to inform the airline in advance will be considered a No-Show. Once the risk-free period ends, you won’t get a refund if you have booked your tickets from unauthorized centers.
What Happens After I Miss My American Airlines Flight?
If you miss a flight due to being late or stuck in traffic, there are two possible outcomes. In one scenario, if you notify the airline in advance and arrive at the airport on time, you may be able to secure a rebooking. In the other scenario, failing to show up or inform American Airlines puts you at a disadvantage. Regardless of the circumstances, it’s essential to continue with your travel plans, but the risks increase when you don’t communicate your situation to the airline.
American Airlines No Show Policy
You will be considered a no-show, and the American Airlines no-show policy will apply when you do not inform the airline about missing a flight. This happens when you fail to show up without even connecting with an AA representative. Here’s what goes on next:
- You are considered a no-show.
- All your related flight reservations under the same itinerary are canceled.
- The booking amount associated with your tickets is forfeited.
So, it is better if you call up the American Airlines customer service team and tell them about missing your flight to get a rebooking. If you have any doubt, connect with the team and solve your travel related queries quite comfortably.
How Do You Rebook a Missed Flight With American Airlines?
Rebooking a missed American Airlines flight is a simple three-step process. You just need to inform the airline about it, reach the airport within the suggested time limit, and get a rebooking at no extra cost. Here are the detailed steps for a quick reference:
Via American Airlines Customer Service Number
Immediately dial the American Airlines missed flight phone number to connect to an airline agent after you realize you will miss your flight. Inform them of the reason to let them find and arrange a new booking for you if possible. American Airlines gives you a 15-minute buffer period before and after the departure to inform you about missed flights.
At the Airport Counter
As soon as possible, arrive at the airport. The airline lets you book an American Airlines flight at no extra cost within 15 minutes before or after the departure. There is also an unspoken rule of 2 hours. Given that you arrive at the airport within 2 hours of the original flight’s departure time and head straight to the AA customer service desk. Tell the agent your concerns and wait for some alternatives. American Airlines will not offer missed flight refunds in any case where you are the reason for missing your flight.
Ask and Get a Rebooking
You can ask the airport agent for assistance with rebooking your flight, and they will find a suitable option based on your original itinerary. American Airlines does not charge for missing a flight. If you booked through a travel agent, contact them directly for support. Make sure you have all necessary documents and let them know as soon as you realize you will miss your flight to discuss rebooking options. Keep in mind that refunds are only available if you meet specific eligibility criteria.
Can I Rebook a Missed American Flight?
If you miss your American Airlines flight, you may still have the opportunity to rebook for a different flight under certain circumstances. For example, if you arrive late to the airport and miss your flight as a result, the airline provides options to help you rebook. If you have problems with your travel documents that prevent you from checking in or passing through security, inform the airline for assistance. Additionally, if you mistakenly go to the wrong airport, you may qualify for rebooking assistance. Furthermore, if you did not apply for ESTA authorization when traveling internationally, rebooking might also be possible. Generally, American Airlines allows you to catch a later flight or fly standby after your original departure.
Via Online
- Log in to the American Airlines official website,
- Access the AA manage booking section,
- Retrieve your trip using your details.
- See the missed flight information,
- Connect with an AA representative on the phone.
- Request a rebooking.
If there are still 15 minutes left for departure or you are not past 15 minutes after the plane left the runway, you will be able to rebook using the steps above. Remember, rebooking a flight does not mean you get to change the airport details or destination. You can only get an alternative flight to your destination after your initial one departs.
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Will American Airlines offer a missed flight refund?
You may get a refund for a missed American Airlines flight, but that may depend on the fare you have and the reason for missing your flight. Here are the details:
- American Airlines does not offer refunds for flights due to any reason under your control.
- If you miss flights due to any uncontrollable reason like a sudden illness, death in the family, etc., your fare decides whether you get a partial or full refund.
The best part is that American Airlines does not even charge for a missed flight and lets you rebook free of charge within the specified time frame.
If My Flight is Delayed
If the airline delays your flight and you miss it due to that, there will be separate rules. American Airlines delayed flight policy applies when the delays are under their control; you won’t get any compensation.
Besides, if you miss a connection, the airline will make sure you can still get a connecting flight to your destination at no extra charge in the same class as your previous reservation.
Conclusion
If you realize you’re going to miss your American Airlines (AA) flight, check their missed flight policy for options to rebook at no extra cost. It’s best to leave for the airport on time, but if you miss your flight, you can still request a rebooking. AA also offers online check-in for a smoother experience. For further assistance, feel free to reach out to us.
