American Airlines
is taking a stand against line-skipping as it tests new technology aimed at ensuring passengers board their flights according to their assigned groups. This move could streamline the boarding process and ensure fairness for all passengers.

Boarding gates at Paris Orly Airport

Photo: Jonathan E. Hendry | Simple Flying

Trial underway at several airports

The trial began a few weeks ago and is currently active at Albuquerque
and Tucson International Airport. According to USA TODAY, American Airlines has confirmed plans to expand the testing to additional locations, including Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
near Washington, DC.

In a recent statement to Nexstar, an American Airlines spokesperson confirmed that agents at select airports are trialing an automated boarding system designed to enhance the boarding experience. “We are in the early phase of testing new technology used during the boarding process,” the spokesperson said. The initiative aims to provide better visibility into boarding progress for airline staff while ensuring that customers enjoy priority boarding benefits.

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Error beep

While American Airlines has not provided specific details about the technology, passenger reports suggest it involves an automated system that detects when travelers attempt to board out of turn.

A traveler flying out of Albuquerque recently shared their experience on Reddit, describing a scene where line-skip attempts were met with automated alerts. According to the passenger, those trying to board with Group 1 who were not eligible received an “error beep” when scanning their tickets. A gate agent then informed them they were in Group 5 and needed to step aside.

gate-b51-mxp

Photo: Giacomo Amati | Simple Flying

“I saw this in action yesterday,” another commenter echoed this experience from Memphis International Airport
(MEM): “I saw about five people get punted out of line for trying to board before their group was called.”

Positive feedback: “It’s about time.”

Passengers who follow the rules seem to support this enforcement of boarding groups; some have even suggested that those who break the rules should be subjected to disproportionate punishments, including being placed in a fictional Group 1,000,000,000.

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Typically, travelers accompanying a spouse or companion in a lower boarding group can still board together with the higher group number. Passengers are encouraged to inform the gate agent of their situation. However, American Airlines has not yet announced details related to this policy in conjunction with the new technology.​​​​​​​

Can new technology speed up boarding process?

The move by American Airlines addresses a persistent problem in air travel. For years, airlines have struggled with enforcing boarding orders, often relying on an honor system that has proven ineffective. This new approach represents a more proactive stance in managing passenger behavior and expectations during the boarding process.

Airport Gate Queue

Photo: ShutterStockStudio | Shutterstock

While American Airlines reports being pleased with the initial testing, it remains to be seen whether the new technology will significantly speed up the boarding process or effectively deter “gate lice” – passengers who crowd the boarding area before their group is called.

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