How to Scan Your Passport on the United Airlines App: A Traveler’s Guide

Scanning your passport on the United Airlines app is a breeze, designed to streamline your travel experience. Here’s the straightforward process: Open the app, navigate to your reservation, and select the option to “Add Passport Information” or “Manage Passport Details.” The app will then prompt you to use your phone’s camera to scan the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ), the two lines of alphanumeric code at the bottom of your passport page. Follow the on-screen instructions for optimal scanning, and the app will automatically populate the required fields. Review the information, confirm its accuracy, and submit.

The Why and How of Digital Passport Scanning

In today’s travel landscape, efficiency is king. Standing in long queues to manually input passport information is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Digital passport scanning through airline apps like United’s significantly speeds up the check-in process, reduces the chances of manual data entry errors, and ultimately, allows you to spend less time on administrative tasks and more time enjoying your trip. But it’s not just about speed; it’s about security too. By digitally submitting your passport information beforehand, you help verify your identity and facilitate smoother passage through security checkpoints.

Step-by-Step: Scanning Your Passport on the United Airlines App

Let’s break down the process into manageable steps:

1. Download and Open the United Airlines App: Ensure you have the latest version of the app installed on your smartphone or tablet. You can find it on the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). Open the app and log in with your MileagePlus account or reservation details.

2. Locate Your Reservation: On the app’s home screen, you should see a section dedicated to your upcoming trips. Find the reservation for which you want to add your passport information. You can also manually search for your reservation using your confirmation number and last name.

3. Find the “Add Passport Information” Option: Once you’ve selected your reservation, look for a button or link labeled “Add Passport Information,” “Manage Passport Details,” or something similar. The exact wording may vary slightly depending on the app version.

4. Initiate the Scan: Tapping on the appropriate button will open the passport scanning interface. The app will likely request permission to access your device’s camera; grant this permission to proceed.

5. Scan the MRZ: Position your passport so that the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ), the two lines of text at the bottom of your passport’s information page, is clearly visible within the frame displayed on your screen. Ensure adequate lighting and hold your device steady. The app should automatically detect and scan the MRZ within seconds.

6. Review and Verify: After the scan, the app will populate the relevant fields with the information extracted from your passport. Carefully review each field, including your name, passport number, date of birth, citizenship, and expiration date, to ensure accuracy. Correct any errors manually.

7. Submit the Information: Once you’ve verified the information, tap the “Submit” or “Save” button to complete the process. You may receive a confirmation message indicating that your passport information has been successfully added to your reservation.

Tips for a Smooth Scanning Experience

• Good Lighting is Key: Scan your passport in a well-lit environment to ensure the app can accurately read the MRZ. Avoid shadows or glare.
• Steady Hands: Hold your device as steady as possible during the scan. A shaky hand can result in a blurry image, making it difficult for the app to recognize the MRZ.
• Clean Passport: Make sure your passport page is clean and free of any obstructions that could interfere with the scan.
• Update Your App: Always use the latest version of the United Airlines app to take advantage of the most recent features and bug fixes.
• Manual Entry Option: If the scanning fails repeatedly, the app will typically offer an option to manually enter your passport information. Use this as a backup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions travelers have about scanning their passport using the United Airlines app:

1. Why should I scan my passport on the United app? Scanning your passport expedites the check-in process, reduces errors from manual entry, and can contribute to smoother security checks. It’s convenient and efficient!

2. What if the app can’t scan my passport? The app usually provides a manual entry option. Double-check lighting, cleanliness of the passport page, and stability of your hands first. Ensure your app is the latest version too.

3. Is it safe to scan my passport on the United app? Yes, the United Airlines app utilizes secure data encryption to protect your personal information. They are obligated to handle your data with care.

4. Does this work for all international flights? Generally, yes. However, always check the specific requirements of your destination country, as some may have unique stipulations.

5. Can I scan my family’s passports on my app? Yes, you can scan passports for all travelers listed under the same reservation, adding each passport one at a time.

6. What happens if my passport expires after I scan it but before my flight? You must update your passport information with your new passport details immediately. Expired passports are not valid for international travel.

7. Will I still need to show my physical passport at the airport? Yes, you will still need to present your physical passport at the check-in counter and security checkpoints. Scanning via the app streamlines the initial data entry, but the physical document is still required.

8. Can I scan my passport if I’m not a MileagePlus member? You can still scan your passport if you have a United Airlines reservation, even without a MileagePlus account. You’ll likely need to enter your confirmation number and last name to access your reservation.

9. What information is extracted from my passport scan? The app typically extracts your name, passport number, date of birth, citizenship, and expiration date. Review these fields carefully after the scan.

10. What if I don’t have access to the app? You can still enter your passport information manually at the airport check-in counter. However, scanning beforehand is highly recommended for convenience.

11. Is there a deadline for scanning my passport before the flight? While there’s no strict deadline, it’s best to scan your passport information as soon as possible after booking your flight. This allows ample time to address any issues.

12. What if I made a mistake when entering my passport details? You should be able to edit your passport information through the app by revisiting the “Manage Passport Details” section. If you are unable to, contact United Airlines customer service for assistance.

By following these steps and keeping these tips in mind, you can confidently scan your passport using the United Airlines app and enjoy a smoother, more efficient travel experience. Happy travels!