American Airlines Fights 'Gate Lice' in Boarding Process

New Boarding Process to Reduce Hassle

American Airlines is making changes to its boarding process in an effort to combat "gate lice." These frequent fliers and other individuals who linger near the boarding gate in order to get a better seat or position are often seen as a nuisance by other travelers.

Beginning Tuesday, American Airlines will implement a new boarding procedure that will more closely resemble the "back-to-front" boarding system of Southwest Airlines, in which passengers are grouped into numbered boarding groups based on their fare class and elite status.

Groups Will Be Emphasized

Within each boarding group, passengers will be encouraged to line up in designated areas, in numerical order, so gate agents can start the boarding process at the back of the line and work their way forward. American will also increase the number of boarding areas it uses at each gate, which will help spread out the crowd and make it easier for passengers to find their spot in line.

Other Airlines May Follow Suit

Other major airlines might soon follow American Airlines' lead. "Our customers tell us that one of the most frustrating aspects of air travel is the boarding process," said Chief Customer Officer Andrew Nocella. "We're committed to making things better."

Will It Help?

It remains to be seen whether American Airlines' new boarding process will be effective in reducing gate lice. However, the airline is confident that the changes will make the boarding process more efficient and less stressful for passengers.

“We believe that this new boarding process will be a positive change for our customers,” Nocella said.

Only time will tell if American Airlines' new gate lice policy will be successful. However, it is a step in the right direction if the airline wants to improve the boarding process for its passengers.