Missing a flight is one of the most frustrating travel experiences. Whether you were stuck in traffic, delayed at security, or dealing with an emergency, knowing how to recover quickly can make the difference between salvaging your trip or losing your money.

In 2025, American Airlines offers several options to help passengers who’ve missed their flights—ranging from same-day rebooking to flight credits, depending on the fare type and circumstances. This expert guide will walk you through exactly what to do if you miss your American Airlines flight, what fees may apply, and how to rebook smoothly.

For real-time support, contact American Airlines directly at +1-866-463-2404.

Common Reasons Travelers Miss Flights

Missing a flight can happen for a number of reasons, including:

• Late arrival to the airport

• Traffic or transit delays

• Long TSA security lines

• Overbooking or flight changes

• Medical emergencies

• Incorrect time zone settings or flight reminders

Whatever the cause, American Airlines has policies in place to help you rebook or receive credit if handled correctly.

What Happens If You Miss Your American Airlines Flight?

American Airlines’ response depends on:

• Whether you arrived late or no-showed

• Your fare type

• Your reason for missing the flight

• When you notify the airline

The key is to act immediately and understand the difference between a “flat tire rule” exception and a full no-show.

Flat Tire Rule: Your First Line of Defense

American Airlines follows an unofficial "Flat Tire Rule," which allows rebooking on the next available flight at no charge, provided:

• You arrive at the airport within 2 hours of your original departure

• You missed your flight due to circumstances outside your control (e.g., traffic, minor medical emergency)

• You still intend to travel the same day

This policy is not published officially, so it’s handled on a case-by-case basis by the airport agent or customer support.

To use it, speak to an American Airlines representative at the airport desk, or call +1-866-463-2404 immediately after missing your flight.

Same-Day Standby and Confirmed Flight Options

If you miss your flight but still want to fly the same day, you have two main options:

1. Standby for the Next Available Flight

• Free for most domestic flights

• Subject to seat availability

• No guarantee of a confirmed seat

• Must request at airport or through support

2. Same-Day Confirmed Flight Change

• Flat fee (typically $75 for non-elite travelers)

• Allows guaranteed seat on a later same-day flight

• Subject to fare rules and availability

• Free for elite status members (Platinum and above)

To request a same-day confirmed change, call +1-866-463-2404 or ask at the airport counter.

What If You Booked a Basic Economy Fare?

Unfortunately, Basic Economy tickets are non-changeable and non-refundable. If you miss your Basic Economy flight:

• You will be marked as a no-show

• The value of your ticket is forfeited

• No credit or rebooking options are provided

For more flexibility, it’s always better to book Main Cabin or higher.

Missed Flight Rebooking Policy (2025 Update)

Here’s how American Airlines typically handles rebooking in 2025, based on fare type:

Call +1-866-463-2404 to confirm your eligibility and next steps.

What Happens If You No-Show?

If you do not inform American Airlines that you’ve missed your flight and you simply don’t show up, you may lose:

• The entire value of your ticket

• Connecting flights on the same itinerary

• Any remaining legs of a round-trip ticket

To avoid being marked a no-show:

• Contact American Airlines as soon as possible at +1-866-463-2404

• Cancel or update your trip before departure

• Ask if your situation qualifies under the Flat Tire Rule

Rebooking a Missed Flight: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Contact American Airlines Immediately

Time is critical. Call +1-866-463-2404 as soon as you realize you may miss or have missed your flight.

Step 2: Explain Your Situation

Be honest and clear. Describe the delay (e.g., traffic, medical emergency, long lines) and request options for rebooking or standby.

Step 3: Choose the Best Option

Based on fare type and availability, choose one of the following:

• Free rebooking under Flat Tire Rule

• Pay a fee for same-day confirmed flight

• Request standby if no confirmed seats are available

• Use flight credit for future travel (if applicable)

Step 4: Receive New Booking Details

Confirm the new flight info and boarding pass. Make sure your new itinerary reflects all connecting flights and upgrades (if any).

Can You Use Flight Credit After a Missed Flight?

If your ticket is non-refundable and you miss the flight without rescheduling, you may still qualify for flight credit. This depends on:

• Whether you were marked as a no-show

• Fare rules at time of booking

• If you canceled before departure

Flight credits are:

• Non-transferable

• Valid for one year from the date of issue

• Usable for any American Airlines flight by the same traveler

To check credit status or apply it to a new flight, contact +1-866-463-2404.

Special Cases: Medical or Emergency Situations

If you missed your flight due to a medical emergency, family crisis, or other unexpected situation, American Airlines may offer a fee waiver or travel credit.

Be prepared to:

• Submit supporting documentation (e.g., hospital records, death certificate)

• Call support with your case for review

Waivers are granted at the airline’s discretion, so providing clear and prompt information helps your chances.

What If You Miss a Connecting Flight?

If American Airlines causes you to miss a connecting flight (due to delays, cancellations, etc.), you are entitled to a free rebooking on the next available flight.

The airline may also provide:

• Meal vouchers or hotel accommodations (depending on delay length and cause)

• Travel assistance through the American Airlines mobile app or gate agent

Always check flight connection times before booking multi-leg journeys to avoid preventable issues.

How to Avoid Missing Your Flight in the Future

• Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours for international

• Use mobile check-in and TSA PreCheck if available

• Set multiple reminders for flight departure times

• Avoid tight layovers, especially at busy hubs

• Track traffic and weather conditions in advance

Final Thoughts

Missing a flight is never ideal, but it doesn’t have to mean losing your ticket or entire trip. American Airlines provides flexible options in 2025—especially if you act quickly, communicate honestly, and understand your fare rules.

The most important action is to call American Airlines at +1-866-463-2404 immediately. Whether you qualify for same-day rebooking, standby, or flight credit, the support team can help you make the most of a frustrating situation.