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American Airlines Introduces Priority Access For Elite Travelers Get Special Check-In And Boarding Lines

Last Updated: December 02, 2008
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American Airlines Introduces Priority Access For Elite Travelers Get Special Check-In And Boarding Lines

This past week, I flew on American Airlines from Dallas to Tampa, Florida.

On the way back, I saw these two lines, one was called Priority Access, and before we started to boarding at the gate, the gate agent gave us about a 45-minute spiel about the new boarding process. I think 90% of us were confused, although there were two lines for boarding, there really was no difference!

Both my wife and I are Elite frequent flyers with American Airlines and on most trips we try our best to upgrade. In the past and even today Elite members and first class passengers could board first. Under the new program there is really no change.

When it comes to boarding, especially first class, about 80% of those in the front cabin are eagerly waiting to board and not sitting down but, looking to find over head space to put carry-on luggage. Those who board last in First Class, especially when the First Class cabin is full, may end up putting there carry-on in coach. Even though Elite and First Class passengers can check up to two bags, weighting 50lbs. or less for free, we also know better.

Two benefits I do see is that at the same airports there is a fast lane around coach passengers at the TSA Security line and the second is if you don't board first Class the new lane at the gate will get you to the front of the line...which of course ticks off all the coach passengers.

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