United Airlines introduces innovative boarding system to streamline operations

Boarding passengers, a process typically considered among the most labor-intensive pre-flight activities, is undergoing a significant overhaul by United Airlines, one of the largest carriers in the United States. With over 4,900 flights operated daily, United Airlines is set to revolutionize the boarding process starting October 26, 2023, aiming to streamline operations and reduce the costs associated with aircraft idle time on the tarmac.

Under the new boarding system, passengers will be invited to board in a sequence designed to expedite the process. Initially, those seated by the window will be called to board, followed by passengers in middle seats, and finally, those seated in aisle positions. This revised procedure applies specifically to economy class travelers, while boarding for Business and First Class passengers will remain unchanged.

Minimizing Ground Time to Cut Airport Fees

Research conducted by United Airlines indicates that each minute of aircraft ground handling incurs an approximate cost of $100. The newly implemented boarding rules are expected to save around two minutes per flight. When extrapolated across the carrier's daily operations, these time savings could translate into cost reductions of about $980,000 per day, amounting to annual savings of over $357 million. This innovative approach not only promises to enhance passenger experience but also represents a significant financial optimization for the airline.