American Airlines expands tech to enforce boarding order at over 100 airports

American Airlines is implementing new technology to prevent passengers from boarding in an earlier group than assigned. This system, initially tested at three airports, will now be expanded to over 100 airports across the United States. The move comes just before the busy Thanksgiving travel period.

The technology alerts gate agents with a beep and visual cue when a passenger attempts to board out of turn. Passengers traveling with companions in higher boarding groups can still board together, as gate agents have the ability to override the alert.

Kim Cisek, American's vice president of customer experience, explained that boarding groups are crucial for customers, especially those with higher-tier tickets or elite status. "Boarding is really important to our customers," she said. Boarding groups offer benefits such as early access to overhead bin space.