Pre-boarding is a term commonly used in the travel industry to describe the process of allowing certain passengers to board an aircraft before the rest of the passengers. This practice is designed to accommodate individuals who may require extra time or assistance to get settled in their seats before the general boarding process begins. Pre-boarding can also apply to other modes of transportation such as trains, buses, and cruise ships.
There are several categories of passengers who typically qualify for pre-boarding. These include:
When it comes to air travel, pre-boarding is usually announced by airline staff at the gate before the general boarding process begins. Passengers who qualify for pre-boarding are invited to approach the gate and board the aircraft ahead of other passengers. This allows them to find their seats, stow their carry-on luggage, and get settled without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by the boarding process.
For passengers with disabilities or those who require special assistance, pre-boarding can make a significant difference in their travel experience. It allows them to board the aircraft at their own pace and ensures that they have the support they need to get comfortably situated before the cabin fills up with other passengers.
Parents traveling with young children also benefit from pre-boarding, as it gives them extra time to get their kids settled and organized before the chaos of the boarding process begins. This can help reduce stress for both the parents and the other passengers on the flight.
Passengers with medical conditions may need extra time to set up any necessary medical equipment or medications they require during the flight. Pre-boarding allows them to do so without feeling rushed or inconvenienced.
Some airlines also offer pre-boarding to passengers with elite status or specific loyalty program memberships as a perk of their membership. This can include frequent flyers, business class passengers, or passengers who hold certain credit cards affiliated with the airline.
It's important to note that pre-boarding is not the same as priority boarding. Priority boarding typically allows passengers to board after pre-boarding but before the general boarding process based on factors such as ticket class, frequent flyer status, or seat selection.
Overall, pre-boarding plays a crucial role in ensuring that all passengers have a comfortable and stress-free boarding experience. By allowing certain individuals to board early and get settled, airlines and other transportation providers can better accommodate the diverse needs of their passengers and create a more inclusive travel environment for everyone.