Qantas is aiming to make aircraft boarding faster and more efficient by changing its method of getting passengers onto flights.
The national airline previously used a class-based system that allowed premium cabins and high-status frequent flyers to board first, followed by everyone else.
The new system divides passengers into six groups based on their seat position on the plane, their frequent flyer status and their cabin class.
Once your group number is called, you will be able to board. Signs and announcements will help clarify which of the six groups boards and at what time.
Anyone trying to avoid the line will be stopped at the door. The boarding pass scanner will only allow passengers to continue once their assigned group number is announced.
Qantas said recent trials of the system across the country have shortened queues at the gate and allowed passengers to be seated faster.
The new system divides passengers into six groups based on the class they are in, their frequent flyer status and seat location.
Qantas’ new system comes into effect in Brisbane today, Perth next week and then Melbourne and Sydney at the end of the month.
Qantas Domestic chief executive Markus Svensson said staggering economy class boarding based on seating areas would result in more planes leaving on time.
“We continue to look for ways to respond to pain points and improve our customers’ travel experience,” said Mr Svensson.
“We know how important it is for our customers to get out on time, so this process is also about doing everything we can to ensure we get out on time.”
Qantas’ new system comes into effect in Brisbane today, in Perth on June 10, in Melbourne from June 17 and in Sydney on June 25.
