Support
Airside App
What is the Airside App?
The Airside App is a convenient and private solution to manage your verified digital identity. The application can be used to easily add, store, and share your passport, driver’s license, and COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card. By using the Airside App, you save time while maintaining control of your data.
How do I use the Airside App?
- Download the Airside Digital Identity App for free from the Apple App Store onto a mobile device with ≥14.0 or the Google Play Store onto a mobile device with Android ≥8.0 (API level 26). Android devices must also have NFC capability.
- Open the app and create an account using your email address. Check your email inbox for a verification code to confirm your email address. Your account will be encrypted using TouchID, FaceID, or your device PIN.
- Select the Documents tab to take your selfie, then add and verify your passport and/or driver's license.
- Select the Services tab and determine how you’d like to use your digital ID. Services available: the American Airlines Mobile ID for use at TSA PreCheck® and the Admirals Club®, and the Health Pass Service for your COVID-19 Vaccination Record (iOS only).
- Select the Activities tab to keep track of how your information is shared and revoke access at any time.
How much does the Airside App cost?
The Airside App is free. You can download it from the Apple App Store onto a mobile device with iOS ≥14.0 or the Google Play Store onto a mobile device with Android 8.0 (API level 26) or later.
Do I have to be connected to Wi-Fi or a cellular network to use the app?
What kinds of documents can I add to the app?
You can add a passport issued from any country as long as the passport has not expired and has an electronic NFC chip, as identified by an e-Passport gold square symbol on the front cover, located under the country of origin.
The Airside App can also be used to verify and add a U.S. driver’s license. Please note that the following states do not participate in this type of digital verification — AK, CA, LA, MN, NH, NY, OK, PA, SC, UT. Driver’s licenses from these states will fail to be verified and enrolled in the app. In this case, we suggest you add your passport.
Other documents that may be added to the app include selfies and, for iOS devices, images of COVID-19 vaccination record cards.
Why do I need to take a selfie?
Your selfie is required as part of the verification measures performed on your ID.
How do I add a passport?
Make sure your passport has not expired and confirm that it is an e-Passport, which has a readable electronic NFC chip. E-Passports are identified by a gold square symbol on the front cover, located under the country of origin. If it isn't an e-Passport, it cannot be enrolled on the app.
Next, check your mobile device Settings to allow the app access to the camera and NFC chip reader.
How to add a passport:
- Find a stable, well-lit environment to avoid distortion or glare on the passport.
- Remove any external covers or holders from your passport.
- Open the app and tap the Documents tab from the bottom navigation bar, then select Passport.
- Using the camera, align the MRZ (Machine-Readable Zone) code at the bottom of the passport in the drawn field on the app and tap Start MRZ Scanner. When the code is captured, you will automatically be directed to the NFC chip reader instructions.
- Keeping your passport open, place your phone flat against the photo page. Move your phone slowly until the chip has been located. Sometimes the chip may be found inside the back cover.
- Review the information on the consent form and tap I Consent; your passport is now being verified. When completed, tap Continue.
- Your passport information is now located under the Documents tab.
Quick Videos:
How to enroll a passport on iOS
How to enroll a passport on Android
How do I add a driver’s license?
Note: The Airside App only verifies U.S. driver’s licenses against data from the issuing agency. The following states do not participate in this type of digital verification — AK, CA, LA, MN, NH, NY, OK, PA, SC, UT. Driver’s licenses from these states will fail to be verified and enrolled in the app. In this case, we suggest you add your passport.
How to add a driver’s license:
- Find a stable, well-lit environment to avoid distortion or glare on the driver’s license.
- Select the Documents tab from the bottom navigation bar, then select Driver's License.
- Place your driver’s license on a flat surface and avoid glare.
- Take a photo of the front, then the back.
- Review the information on the consent form and tap I Consent.
- Once your document is verified, tap Continue. Your driver's license is now enrolled on the app.
Why didn’t the app verify my driver’s license?
Depending on which biographic and biometric attributes were collected and are contained in the driver’s license issued by the state, it may not be possible to digitally validate and verify its credentials.
Additionally, if you are trying to enroll your driver’s license issued by one of the following states, it will not work: AK, CA, LA, MN, NH, NY, OK, PA, SC, UT. In this case, we suggest you add your passport.
How can I manage my IDs and selfie?
- iOS: Tap Take New Selfie then Take a selfie, and your camera will open to allow you to retake your selfie.
- Android: Tap Delete Selfie, then Delete, then tap the camera icon to retake your selfie.
What if I deleted my IDs?
No worries. You can enroll your ID again. Please know that any consents linked to a deleted ID are automatically revoked and will no longer be active. To use the services on the app, you will need to add your IDs again.
Does the app replace my physical IDs?
No, the Airside Digital Identity App is not a replacement for your physical IDs. The digital version of your passport and driver's license on the app is a convenient and secure companion to your physical document, which can be used to unlock many services requiring ID verification.
What is the document scanner?
The document scanner helps save time and reduce error when adding an ID on the app. Instead of manually entering the information from the ID, the scanner quickly and accurately captures the information needed for verification and automatically fills in the data fields. Use the document scanner in a stable, well-lit environment and avoid reflection.
What is the NFC chip reader?
Near field communication (NFC) is a secure, touchless technology that allows two devices to talk to each other when they’re close together.
When adding a passport to the app, you’ll first use the document scanner to capture your biographic information from the machine-readable zone (MRZ) code located at the bottom of the personal data page. Then, you’ll use the NFC chip reader to validate that biographic data and compare the biometric photo on your passport to your selfie on the app.
Keep your passport open and place your phone flat against the photo page. Move your phone slowly until the chip has been located. NFC microchips and antennas in passports vary and may sometimes be located inside the back cover. Microchips can also be damaged, making them unreadable by a device
Quick Videos:
How to enroll a passport on iOS
How to enroll a passport on Android
Can I access my Airside App from separate mobile devices?
Can I use the app for multiple people?
No. At this time, IDs can only be enrolled on the app for one person.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to use the app?
Is there an age restriction for using the app?
How do I change my PIN?
What is a share consent?
How exactly is my personal information shared?
Specifically, the consent process allows you to review the following conditions before, during and after the time your information is shared:
- What kinds of identified personal information is shared for the selected service;
- Which organization may access personal info and for what purpose;
- How long your personal info is shared and when it will expire;
- How your personal info is encrypted in storage and throughout transactions; and
- How you may revoke your consent to share.
What happens to my information after the share consent has expired?
Can I renew an expired share consent?
How is the app secure?
Will you tell me more about my data privacy and security?
Absolutely. There has never been a time when the integrity and privacy of digital identity were more important. We believe your control of your personal information is a fundamental right and you can do so easily using our services. We promise the highest levels of security to keep your information safe and commit to only using your information for the purpose(s) to which you have agreed in the consent process.
Specifically, the Airside App uses your Touch ID, Face ID, or device PIN, which are stored on your device keychain. That means you don't need to remember an app-specific PIN or password and that you are the key to unlocking your personal information. After you give consent to share your personal information, it is transported via end-to-end encryption protocols.
We welcome you to read through Airside's Privacy Policy at airsidemobile.com/privacy-policy.
Who developed the Airside App?
Founded in 2009 and headquartered in the Washington D.C. area, Airside committed from the start that data privacy is a human right. We build secure and convenient digital identity technology in a way that protects personal information and meets privacy regulations around the world.
Our unique architecture led to a partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA), and the launch of the Mobile Passport App in 2014. Airside’s Mobile Passport was trusted by over 10 million people at over 30 U.S. airports and cruise ports as a secure, touchless solution for travelers to save time and gain peace-of-mind during the customs inspection process.
Airside’s larger privacy network is the first of its kind and keeps privacy-by-design and leading-edge security as its guiding principles for use by individuals and businesses alike. Individuals are empowered by controlling their personal information with transparent consent protocols on their encrypted device, and businesses protect against fraud and ensure a duty-of-care by managing only the information necessary for a variety of experiences. Strong encryption technology using innovative, decentralized architecture keeps information safe, eliminating any source verification database that can be accessed or used by Airside.
Who can I contact for support with the app?
American Airlines Mobile ID Services
What are the American Airlines Mobile ID services?
The American Airlines Mobile ID Services makes it easy for AAdvantage® members to use the Airside App to share their verified driver’s license or passport to enter select TSA PreCheck® security checkpoints and Admirals Club® lounges at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).
Watch Video Tutorial
Can I access the airline lounge without using the Airside App?
Can I use this service to self-check my luggage at the airport?
How can I get more information about the American Airlines Touchless ID verification program and get support?
Please visit the American Airlines Touchless ID website to learn more about the program. Also, you may visit their Admirals Club website to contact American Airlines for support.
Who may use the American Airlines Mobile ID services?
For use at TSA PreCheck®, you must be an American Airlines AAdvantage® member with TSA PreCheck®. You will be required to enter your AAdvantage® number and your Known Traveler Number (KTN) on the Airside App to use this service.
For use at the Admirals Club®, you must be an American Airlines AAdvantage® member. You will be required to enter your AAdvantage® number on the Airside App to use this service.
Both services allow a mobile ID to be created on the Airside App using a U.S. passport or driver’s license from states that are part of the AAMVA DLDV program. Driver’s licenses from the following states are not eligible - AK, CA, LA, MN, NH, NY, OK, PA, SC, UT. Travelers with IDs from these states should use their U.S. passport for creating a mobile ID.
What documents can I use to create an American Airlines Mobile ID?
An American Airlines Mobile ID can be created on the Airside App using a U.S. passport or driver’s license from states that are part of the AAMVA DLDV program. Driver’s licenses from the following states are not eligible: AK, CA, LA, MN, NH, NY, OK, PA, SC, UT. Travelers with IDs from these states should use their U.S. passport for creating an American Airlines Mobile ID.
When should I create my American Airlines Mobile ID?
What is the American Airlines Mobile ID for TSA PreCheck®?
This service makes it easy for air travelers to process through the airport security checkpoint using only their smartphone and face.
The traveler’s journey starts with the creation of a verified mobile ID on the Airside App. Then, instead of fumbling for their physical driver’s license or passport, they can securely share their mobile ID with TSA and receive a digital encrypted Quick Response (QR) code on the app. When they approach the TSA officer, the traveler will present the QR code on the phone and look into the camera for a facial biometric scan.
Where may I use the American Airlines Mobile ID for TSA PreCheck®?
How do I use the American Airlines Mobile ID for TSA PreCheck®?
To be super speedy, complete steps 1-2 before you travel:
- Set up the app: Download the Airside App and create your account. Check your device Settings to allow the app access to the camera and NFC reader.
- Create your mobile ID: Under Services, tap American Airlines Mobile ID and then select service For use at TSA PreCheck®. Enroll your driver’s license or passport, enter your enter your AAdvantage® number and Known Traveler Number (KTN), and create your mobile ID. Tap on I Consent to agree with the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Your mobile ID will be created in the form of a QR code on the app. Be sure to bring your physical ID on your trip in case it’s requested by TSA.Upon arriving at the airport security checkpoint:
- Power up your phone: Turn on Wi-Fi or data. Make sure the Date & Time settings for your device are set for your current, local time zone, and turn on Bluetooth.
- Find the TSA PreCheck® security checkpoint: Look for signage. Some TSA PreCheck® locations will have designated lanes for travelers using their American Airlines Mobile ID.
- Open the Airside App: Select American Airlines Mobile ID and For use at TSA PreCheck®, then tap Present QR Code. This QR code will expire after two (2) minutes, but you can generate a new QR code to share when you approach the TSA officer. Likewise, if you keep the app open on the QR code screen, the QR code will automatically refresh every 90 seconds.
- Present your mobile ID: Present your smartphone with the QR code showing face up to the scanner. Note: The feature that increases the brightness level when the QR code is enlarged was implemented to allow the scanner to better read the QR code. The brightness level resets to the previous level once the screen is locked and unlocked again.
- Look at the camera: A camera will take a facial scan to provide a match of your face with the mobile ID you presented on the app. Your biometric and biographic details will be displayed for the TSA officer to approve your entry through the checkpoint.
If I take a screenshot of my QR code, will it work as my American Airlines Mobile ID for TSA PreCheck®?
Why do I have to wait 24 hours before trying to use the American Airlines Mobile ID for TSA PreCheck® service again?
Why do I need to refresh the QR code for the TSA PreCheck® service?
You will present your mobile ID in the form of a QR code to TSA at the checkpoint. This QR code will expire after two (2) minutes. Once you arrive at the TSA security checkpoint, tap Generate New QR Code to enable it to be transmitted to TSA via BLE at that time.
What is a Known Traveler Number (KTN) and where can I find it?
A Known Traveler Number (KTN) is issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to those approved for Trusted Traveler programs, such as TSA PreCheck®, Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI. You can look up your KTN on the TSA website.
What is the American Airlines Mobile ID for the Admirals Club®?
This service makes it easy for AAdvantage® members to save time and enter the Admiral’s Club® using only their face.
The traveler’s journey starts by creating and sharing their mobile ID with American Airlines via the Airside App. When they arrive at the entrance to the Admiral’s Club® lounge, and instead of fumbling for their boarding pass or ID, they simply look into the camera for a facial biometric scan to match against their verified mobile ID on the Airside App.
Where may I use the American Airlines Mobile ID for the Admirals Club®?
How do I use the American Airlines Mobile ID for the Admirals Club®?
- Set up the app: Download the Airside App and create your account. Check your device Settings to allow the app access to the camera and NFC reader.
- Create your mobile ID: Open the Airside App and select Services. Tap American Airlines Mobile ID and then select For use at Admirals Club®. Enroll your driver’s license or passport and use the drop-down menus to select departure airport, departure date, ID, and AAdvantage® member number. Tap I Consent to agree with the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Be sure to bring your physical ID on your trip just in case. Upon arriving at the Admiral’s Club®:
- Power up your phone: Turn on Wi-Fi or data. Make sure the Date & Time settings for your device are set for your current, local time zone.
- Find the Admirals Club®: Look for signage to use the Airside App for access. The camera on the verification tablet will take your facial scan to provide a biometric match of your face with the ID you enrolled on the app.
Can I access the Admirals Club® lounge without using the Airside App?
How can I get more information about the American Airlines Mobile ID program and get support?
Please visit the American Airlines website to learn more about the program. You may also visit the Admirals Club® website to contact American Airlines for support.
Health Pass Service
What is the COVID Vaccination Card service?
Currently available for iOS devices, the vaccination card service allows you to store a digital image of your COVID-19 vaccination record card on the Airside App for easy access, eliminating the need to hunt through photo collections. This allows you to safely present your card to restaurants, offices, hotels, theme parks and/or in other situations where a visual presentation of an image of the vaccination card is acceptable. This service also provides a link between a personal vaccination self-attestation with your source-verified passport and/or driver’s license.
Watch Video Tutorial
Are the uploaded vaccination records verified to guarantee that the information is accurate?
How do you know the vaccine records I uploaded do not belong to someone else?
Airside verifies the identity of the user through biometric matching and ID document verification of passports and driver’s licenses. However, it is up to the individual to self-attest the validity and accuracy of their vaccine record.