Can You Reschedule a Missed Flight on American Airlines?

Missing a flight can be stressful — but if it happens on American Airlines, there’s still a chance to get back on track.
Whether you missed your flight because of traffic, delays, or personal reasons, this guide explains when and how you can reschedule or rebook a missed American Airlines flight.

Step 1: Act Quickly — Timing Matters

If you miss your flight, contact American Airlines as soon as possible.
Call the customer service line, use the app, or go to the nearest ticket counter.

✅ The faster you reach out (ideally within 2 hours of missing your flight), the higher your chances of getting rebooked on the next available flight — sometimes without extra charges.

Step 2: Understand the “Flat Tire Rule”

American Airlines often applies an informal “Flat Tire Rule.”
That means if you arrive late to the airport for a reasonable cause (traffic, car issue, long TSA line), the airline may rebook you on standby or the next available flight at no extra cost.

💡 Tip: Always stay polite and explain your situation clearly — gate agents have discretion to help.

Step 3: Know the Official Rebooking Options

✅ If You Missed a Flight Due to Airline Delay or Cancellation

You’ll be automatically rebooked on the next available flight. No fee, no stress.

⚠️ If You Missed a Flight for Personal Reasons

• Your original booking may be marked as a no-show.

• Depending on your fare type, the ticket might lose value or allow rebooking for a fee or fare difference.

• Contact support immediately — the sooner, the better your chances.

Step 4: Ticket Type Affects Your Options

Step 5: Use the AA App to Rebook

If you miss your flight but still want to travel, use the American Airlines app or aa.com/mytrips to:

• View your missed flight status

• Check available later flights

• Request same-day standby or rebooking

Some changes can even be made directly in the app without calling customer support.

Step 6: Know About Standby & Same-Day Flight Change

• Same-Day Flight Change:
  If you want to switch to an earlier or later flight on the same day, American Airlines allows this for a small fee (or free for elite members).

• Standby:
  If you missed your original flight, you may be placed on standby for the next available one — at the gate agent’s discretion.

Step 7: If You Missed a Connecting Flight

If you miss your connection because your first AA flight was delayed, American Airlines will automatically rebook you on the next available connection and notify you via app, text, or email.

If you missed it due to your own delay, contact the nearest AA service desk immediately — you might still be able to continue on standby.

Pro Tips

1. Arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic and 3 hours for international flights.

2. Check-in online and download your boarding pass before heading to the airport.

3. Turn on notifications in the AA app for gate and time updates.

4. Join AAdvantage — elite members get better rebooking priority.

Quick Summary

You can reschedule a missed American Airlines flight if you contact the airline quickly. Main Cabin and above fares are usually eligible for rebooking, while Basic Economy may be forfeited. AA may rebook you for free under the “Flat Tire Rule” or standby policy.

Final Thoughts

Yes — you can reschedule a missed flight on American Airlines, but it depends on your ticket type and how quickly you act.
Reach out immediately, explain your situation, and stay flexible. Most of the time, American Airlines will help you get on the next flight without losing your full fare.