How to Claim American Airlines Miles that Are Missing

One of the most annoying things that can happen in the miles and points game is when you spend the money, take the flight but forget to get credit for your miles. It could be as simple as forgetting to add your frequent flyer number to a flight. Maybe you’re booking through a third party travel site, or you’re not logged into your frequent flyer account when you book, or you simply don’t have one.

Whatever the reason is, all is not lost. In most cases, it’s easy to claim your missing airline miles even after you fly.

If it's American Airlines miles you're missing, here's how to retroactively claim them.

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Request missing AAdvantage miles

The American Airlines website has a page dedicated to requesting retroactive mileage credit. To request mileage credit, you'll need your AAdvantage number and your ticket number. The record locator will not be sufficient, you’ll need to look up the ticket number.

The 13-digit ticket number is printed on your ticket and provided in the booking confirmation email, depending on where you booked your flight. If you don’t have your ticket number, you can get it by calling AAdvantage at 800-433-7300.

If you're not yet enrolled in the AAdvantage program this could be a great time to do so.

You can submit your mileage claim as long as it has been at least three days from the completed flight. It can take up to 10 days to credit the miles for an American Airlines flight. Remember, you can receive AAdvantage miles for flights taken on partner airlines. Mileage credit for partner airline flights can take up to 30 days to appear.

» Learn More: Find the best airline credit card for you

Frequently asked questions

How do I find my American Airlines ticket number?

Your ticket number can be found on your confirmation email and receipt, receipt from the airport, printed boarding pass or on your credit card statement. The ticket number is 13 characters long and also includes the airline code. The last 10 digits represent the ticket number.

Can you add American Airlines miles after a flight?

If you don’t see miles credited to your account and it has been at least three days since you completed your travel, you can submit a request to claim the missing miles on aa.com. You will need to have your AAdvantage number and 13-digit ticket number available.

What is the record locator number for American Airlines?

The record locator, confirmation or booking code is a six-character code that’s included on your confirmation email and boarding pass. This is different from your ticket number. The ticket number is 13 characters long and also includes the airline code. The last 10 digits represent the ticket number.

Where can I find the airline code for American Airlines?

The airline code is the first three digits of your ticket number, which can be found on your confirmation email, receipt provided at the airport or credit card statement.

How long will it take to receive my missing American Airlines miles?

It can take up to 10 days for American Airlines flights and up to 30 days for flights on partner airlines.

Final thoughts on claiming American Airlines miles after your flight

If you forgot to input your AAdvantage number when you booked your ticket, all is not lost. Submit the form online or get in touch with AA’s customer service to get your miles credited to your account.