American Airlines' New Boarding System Exposes Queue Jumpers

A spokesperson for the airline tells PEOPLE that this technology is designed to streamline priority boarding and enhance the overall boarding experience for both passengers and the airline.

The trial is underway in Albuquerque and Tucson, and the results have been promising. American Airlines is so impressed with the technology’s success that it plans to roll it out to other airports, including Reagan National near Washington, D.C.

But while the airline might be celebrating this technological triumph, some might feel a pang of resentment. After all, who hasn’t been tempted to sneak a head start, especially when the overhead bins are filling up fast?

The airline’s boarding process prioritizes travelers with status or those who have paid extra for front-of-plane seats. This means those who shelled out for priority boarding are typically called in Group 4, while main cabin passengers board in Groups 7 and 8. Basic economy passengers, who pay the lowest fares, are relegated to the last group.

This could be a game-changer, or it could potentially create a more hostile boarding environment. It’s also not a stretch to argue that it is yet another way for airlines to extract more money from passengers.

One thing is clear: the days of carefree boarding may be numbered. As airlines continue to search for ways to maximize revenue and improve efficiency, passengers can expect more restrictions and regulations.