How Do You Get Priority Boarding On American Airlines?

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If you’re a frequent flyer on American Airlines, you might be wondering how to get priority boarding. Priority boarding can be a game-changer, allowing you to board the plane early and avoid the hassle of waiting in long lines. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways you can get priority boarding on American Airlines and make your flying experience more comfortable and stress-free. So, let’s get started!

How Do You Get Priority Boarding on American Airlines?

How Do You Get Priority Boarding on American Airlines?

Priority boarding is a great perk for frequent flyers or those who want to avoid the hassle of waiting in long lines at the airport. American Airlines offers priority boarding to its customers, but how can you be eligible for this service? Here’s everything you need to know about getting priority boarding on American Airlines.

1. American Airlines Elite Status

If you are a frequent flyer with American Airlines, you can earn elite status by flying a certain number of miles or segments in a calendar year. There are four elite status tiers: Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Executive Platinum. Each tier comes with different benefits, including priority boarding. Gold members can board with Group 4, while Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Executive Platinum members can board with Group 3.

To maintain elite status, you must continue to fly a certain number of miles or segments each year. The higher your status, the more benefits you will receive, including upgrades, lounge access, and more.

2. American Airlines Credit Cards

Another way to get priority boarding on American Airlines is by having an American Airlines credit card. These cards come with a variety of benefits, including priority boarding. The Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite™ Mastercard® and the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard® both offer priority boarding for the primary cardholder and up to 4 companions on the same reservation.

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In addition to priority boarding, these cards also offer other perks such as free checked bags, bonus miles, and discounts on in-flight purchases.

3. First and Business Class Tickets

Passengers who purchase first or business class tickets on American Airlines are also eligible for priority boarding. These passengers can board with Group 1, which is the first group to board after pre-boarding.

In addition to priority boarding, first and business class passengers also receive other benefits such as more spacious seats, premium dining options, and access to exclusive lounges.

4. Military Personnel

American Airlines offers priority boarding to active U.S. military personnel and their dependents traveling on orders. These passengers can board with Group 1, regardless of their seat class. To receive this benefit, military personnel must present their military ID or travel orders at the gate.

5. Premium Economy Tickets

Passengers who purchase premium economy tickets on American Airlines are also eligible for priority boarding. These passengers can board with Group 4, which is the first group to board after pre-boarding and groups 1-3.

In addition to priority boarding, premium economy passengers also receive other benefits such as more legroom, wider seats, and complimentary drinks.

6. Oneworld Alliance Status

If you have elite status with a partner airline in the Oneworld alliance, you may be eligible for priority boarding on American Airlines. Oneworld alliance members include airlines such as British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Qantas.

To receive this benefit, you must provide your Oneworld frequent flyer number when booking your American Airlines flight. Your status will be recognized and you will be eligible for priority boarding based on your Oneworld status.

7. TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are programs that allow travelers to go through expedited security screening at the airport. These programs are available to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.

Passengers who have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry are eligible for priority boarding on American Airlines. They can board with Group 4, which is the first group to board after pre-boarding and groups 1-3.

8. Group Boarding

If you are traveling with a group, you may be eligible for priority boarding on American Airlines. Groups of 10 or more passengers can board together with Group 2.

To take advantage of this benefit, you must contact American Airlines reservations at least 24 hours before your flight and request group boarding. This will ensure that your group is seated together and can board the plane together.

9. Same-Day Flight Changes

Passengers who make same-day flight changes on American Airlines are also eligible for priority boarding. These passengers can board with Group 4, which is the first group to board after pre-boarding and groups 1-3.

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To make a same-day flight change, you must contact American Airlines reservations or visit a ticket counter at the airport. Same-day flight changes are subject to availability and fees may apply.

10. Upgrades

Passengers who are upgraded to a higher class of service on American Airlines are also eligible for priority boarding. These passengers can board with Group 1, which is the first group to board after pre-boarding.

Upgrades are subject to availability and can be requested at the airport or through American Airlines reservations. Passengers who are eligible for upgrades include elite members, travelers with American Airlines credit cards, and those who have purchased full-fare tickets.

In conclusion, there are several ways to get priority boarding on American Airlines. Whether you are a frequent flyer, military personnel, or traveling in a premium class, you can take advantage of this perk and enjoy a stress-free boarding experience. Consider these options and choose the one that best fits your travel needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Priority Boarding on American Airlines?

Priority Boarding on American Airlines is a service that allows passengers to board the plane before the general boarding process begins. This service is available to passengers who have purchased certain American Airlines tickets or have elite status in the airline’s loyalty program.

Passengers who have Priority Boarding are allowed to board after First Class and Business Class passengers, but before Group 1 boarding begins. This can be a great way to ensure that you get overhead bin space for your carry-on luggage and have extra time to settle into your seat before the plane takes off.

What are the ways to get Priority Boarding on American Airlines?

There are several ways to get Priority Boarding on American Airlines. The most common way is to purchase a ticket that includes Priority Boarding as an add-on service. This option is available for all passengers and can be selected during the booking process.

Another way to get Priority Boarding is to have elite status in American Airlines’ AAdvantage loyalty program. Elite members are automatically given Priority Boarding privileges when they book a flight with the airline.

Finally, some American Airlines credit cards also offer Priority Boarding as a benefit. If you have one of these cards, you can simply show it to the gate agent when you board your flight to receive Priority Boarding.

What are the benefits of Priority Boarding?

The main benefit of Priority Boarding is that it allows you to board the plane before most other passengers. This means that you will have more time to settle into your seat, stow your carry-on luggage, and get comfortable before the plane takes off.

In addition, Priority Boarding can also be helpful if you have a tight connection or need to make sure that you have overhead bin space for your carry-on luggage. By boarding early, you can ensure that you have plenty of time to get to your next flight or that your luggage is safely stored on the plane.

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Can I add Priority Boarding to my American Airlines ticket after booking?

Yes, you can add Priority Boarding to your American Airlines ticket after booking. To do so, simply log in to your account on the American Airlines website and select the “Modify Trip” option. From there, you can add Priority Boarding as an add-on service to your booking.

Alternatively, you can also add Priority Boarding by calling American Airlines’ customer service line or by visiting a ticket counter at the airport. Keep in mind that there may be an additional fee for adding Priority Boarding after booking, so it’s always best to add it during the initial booking process if possible.

What is the cost of Priority Boarding on American Airlines?

The cost of Priority Boarding on American Airlines varies depending on the route and fare class of your ticket. Generally, the cost ranges from $9 to $74 per segment, with shorter domestic flights being on the lower end of the price range and longer international flights being more expensive.

If you have elite status in American Airlines’ AAdvantage loyalty program, Priority Boarding is often included as a complimentary benefit. Additionally, some American Airlines credit cards also offer Priority Boarding as a benefit, so be sure to check your card’s terms and conditions to see if this is an option for you.

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In conclusion, getting priority boarding on American Airlines is a great way to save time and stress during the boarding process. By having this benefit, you can board the aircraft before others and have more time to settle in and prepare for your flight. There are several ways to access priority boarding, including purchasing a higher tier of membership or flying in specific classes.

Additionally, American Airlines offers priority boarding to active military members and their families. If you fall into this category, be sure to take advantage of this benefit and inform the airline ahead of time.

Lastly, it’s important to note that priority boarding may not be available on all flights or routes. Make sure to check with American Airlines before your flight to confirm if you have priority boarding and to understand any restrictions or limitations. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of having a stress-free boarding experience on American Airlines.

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