AMERICAN Airlines is trying out a new boarding system that could be a feature at US airports in the future.
The new initiative cracks down on eager passengers who try to get on the plane before their seat numbers and sections are called.
Those who scan their boarding passes too early will be met with an alarm, as reported by Travel and Leisure.
Then, they must wait until terminal staffers tell them it’s time to board the plane.
So far, the concept is being trialed at Albuquerque International Airport in New Mexico and Tucson Airport in Arizona.
One passenger flying out of Albuquerque said some travelers tried to board the plane early but were met with an error sound, according to a Reddit post.
They said the gate agent ordered them to “step aside” as they weren’t due to board.
The program will be tested at Ronald Reagan Washington Airport in Arlington, Virginia.
But airline chiefs hope to expand the program in the future.
And bosses are optimistic about the impact this new system will have on travelers.
“The new technology is designed to ensure customers receive the benefits of priority boarding with ease and helps improve the boarding experience by providing greater visibility into boarding progress for our team,” a spokesperson told Travel and Leisure.
The new system has been welcomed by travelers online, with some saying it is “overdue.”
Others pointed out that the only passengers who will have a problem with it are those who try to board flights early.
Travelers have now called on airline carriers to crack down on those who put several items in the overhead lockers.
The U.S. Sun has approached American Airlines for comment.
BOARDING CHANGES
American Airlines is not the only company making changes to its boarding process.
Delta bosses have rolled out a new boarding system based on zones numbered one to eight.
First-class passengers are in Zone 1, while Delta Comfort travelers board in Zone 3.
Basic economy passengers are the last to board the plane, according to a chart released by the company.
A spokesperson said the change was designed to make the process more streamlined.
But, experts have questioned the purpose of the new system.
“They’re not changing who boards when or the sequence,” Professor John Milne told CBS News.
Southwest Airlines bosses hit the headlines when they announced the company would be ending its open-seat boarding policy.
Chiefs admitted that 80% of passengers prefer an assigned seat.
