How to Use Boarding Passes on Apple Watch

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Add the pass to Apple Wallet on iPhone

   Open the email or airline application containing your boarding pass. Tap the Add to Apple Wallet button and select Add in the top right corner to save the pass to your primary device.

   Note: Ensure your Apple Watch is paired and in range of your iPhone to trigger the automatic sync.
2. 30 sec

   Confirm the pass on Apple Watch

   Press the Digital Crown to view your app grid. Open the Wallet app to verify that the boarding pass has appeared automatically under your existing cards.

   Note: If the pass does not appear, check your iPhone Wallet settings and ensure 'Automatic Updates' is enabled.
3. 15 sec

   Access the pass at the terminal

   When approaching the gate, the boarding pass will often appear on your Watch face automatically if you have Smart Stack enabled. If not, open the Wallet app and tap on the specific boarding pass to display the QR code.

   Note: Double-click the side button to open the Wallet app instantly if you have it configured as your primary shortcut.
4. 15 sec

   Scan the QR code

   Position the face of your Apple Watch near the scanner at the gate or security checkpoint. Keep the screen flat against the scanner glass until you hear the confirmation beep.

   Note: Turn your wrist slightly toward the scanner if the reader is recessed or difficult to access.
5. 30 sec

   Adjust screen brightness for scanning

   If the scanner has trouble reading the code, tap the boarding pass to maximize the QR code image. This increases the contrast and makes it easier for older optical scanners to read the data.

   Note: Do not use the Digital Crown to adjust volume while the code is displayed, as this may exit the pass view.