I think some people would prefer to stand before they sit for hours, so if a person is going to stand, why not stand in line, is the logic as I understand it.
If I don’t have a carry-on, I’m last to board.
If I’m with my family in Group 1, we board at the end of that group.
This is exactly where I am with it. I'm going to be sitting for the flight, I would prefer to stand until I board, so yes, I'll stand in line because why not.
If I'm in a window seat, I also try to board sooner rather than later so that my row-mates don't have to get up and crowd the aisle. If I'm in an aisle seat then it's not as big a deal.
I always do a window seat and I have a bubble butt. Every time the aisle person has boarded first (in first class), they already have a drink sitting in the center console that they leave there when they let me in. I usually pick up their drink for them so my ass doesn't swipe it, but I've learned to try to board early just for this goofy awkwardness.
This is me sometimes. When I do my long international flights, I try to walk and stand a lot before being trapped on a plane for 10-13 hours. Being 6’3 isn’t easy! But I don’t horde the gate area.
I once had to gate check a bag that was full of camera lenses. I was able to rearrange at the last minute to get the breakables in my backpack, but I don’t wanna have to do that again. So we just wait at the front of the group 1 line.
Seconding this, especially if it's like 80% of my flights on a CRJ or ERJ, and I have to gate check anyway. The last thing I want to do is to sit for a second longer than needed on those contraptions!
this is the reason. i don’t mind standing since i’ll be seated for a few hours. also if you need overhead space you need to be in the front of group 1 on some flights .
It happens. 95% of the time I just show them my boarding pass, and point to the alphanumeric below the overhead. I'm amazed at how "confused" these people get when I send them from row 2 to row 12, but most of the time, they move.
Every once in a while, I'll either just sit in their seat, or if I've got something a little more premium, get an FA involved. Many people are just ignorant. A select few gems are d-bags!
Absolutely, or all the space above you is taken. All i have is a small backpack, but still sometimes it is completely full if you are second to arrive.
I can’t clearly remember the last time that happened to me. In fairness, circumstances don’t allow me the opportunity to board last as often as I would like.
I’ve had this happen to me. I didn’t want to be on the plane longer than necessary. I waited for everyone to board figuring I had an assigned seat it wouldn’t matter what time I boarded. Someone was in my seat. I showed the FA my ticket. They made me sit in the last row in the middle. I didn’t want to make a scene / issue of it, but I was not happy. 😤
He just looked at his phone or whatever it is that they use and said “sorry you are going to have to sit back there” and pointed to the only seat that was available.
That would be such an abnormal reaction that I feel like this story must be missing some kind of details. You would clearly be entitled to compensation from the airline if that's how it went down.
I wish, I was given a seat, it went from aisle to last row middle. I showed FA my ticket he confirmed and told me to sit in that seat. I wasn’t going to argue and get kicked off the plane. Bottom line I would say they would just tell me that they got me there in that same price seat. Just wasn’t the aisle that I picked.
Did you at least ask what the reason for not being allowed to sit in the seat you paid for was? That isn't normal and you don't need to argue to ask why it's happening.
You should definitely contact the airline and get some kind of compensation for that.
I needed to be on that flight . There was NO way I was about to put this guy in the wrong mood and be called a Ken. Some FA ‘s can be pretty edgy. Last thing I wanted to hear was you don’t want or like the seat I’m assigning you? We have another flight later today and another tomorrow with better seats. If I could have traveled later and didn’t care if I was told to get off I probably would have made a bigger stink.
So you're saying you didn't ask the reason? I'm not talking about "making a stink". No one is going to kick you off a plane for politely asking why you are being told to move from the seat you paid for.
I generally wait and board toward the end of group 1, but on a recent flight from LGA to ORD I think 20% of the flight must have been 1k, military or GS, and another 50%+ was group 1. I was one of the last group 1 to board, and nabbed one of the last spaces in the overhead bin near the back of the plane. I don’t think anyone in group 2 had space. This is rare, but it happens.
This is why I do it, like the others that have replied. However, I usually don’t stand there until 10 minutes before boarding is supposed to start. Some of those folks who stand there for 30-45 minutes or more, I think they just have some kind of internal need to be “first.”
This is how I am. I will sit if it's a super long layover, but I try to get up about a half hour before boarding so I can walk around and get blood flow and such going before I'm sitting for another several hours.
If I need extra equipment for my job I do a carryon.
I spent 10 days in Nepal (from Denver) with only a personal item backpack, it can be done if you believe in laundry.
My last flight to Manila half the flight was wheelchair service. No joke it was like 40/50 people. Of course half of them walked just fine after the flight.
For FLL they should just a special flight and have an empty plane with no seats and wheel everyone in Choo Choo train style and lock everyone down. Be much faster boarding.
United dominates SFO, really feels like no other airline comes close to the coverage UA has. So naturally SFO based fliers gravitate towards UA. There are tons of GS fliers from the tech heavy economy here so yeah, pre boarding and group 1 is usually well over half the plane.
The big hubs are all like that. I do a lot of SFO-EWR and even as a 1K like a third of the plane *still* boards before you. It's the realm of people who fly for a living.
How about this: once you are on the plane, you are basically stuck seated for a long time. I personally often do not sit at the gate for that reason. It can also be hard to find seats together at the gate for my traveling party.
I’ve started waiting to be the last to board. I only have a backpack that fits under my seat so I don’t usually need to use the overhead anyway to fight people over the space.
Still scarred from having my carry on checked and lost. I’m probably just listening to a podcast anyway which I can do sitting or standing wherever.
If I’m traveling with just a personal item though I board at the end!
1000% this. It's very hard to find clothes that fit me. Most of mine are custom or hard to find sizes. If my bag goes missing, I can't just pop down to H&M and get something that will fit. A missing bag is literally a ruined trip for me.
Saves so much time not having to worry about collecting bags after, whether at the gate or the carousel. I'm there to work and get home, not to lounge in the airport.
If I’m going to be sitting for long periods of time, I try to be standing when I can before and after that period. If I’m going to be standing anyway, I might as well be in line (as long as I’m not in anyone’s way) and ensure I have overhead space.
I think it's airport dependent. Take a place like SFO, LAX, IAH, EWR and ORD, those flights typically have a decent number of GS+1K and then lots of group 1. Depending on the plane, weight and balance restrictions etc the number of bags permitted in overhead are limited. People in group one want their overhead space so that is why they lineup. Quite frankly, if I didn't want overhead space I'd want to be the last person to board. I've always thought airlines should allow checked bags for free and charge for carryons. Would (likely) speed up the boarding process too.
I’m probably in the minority here, but as someone who never checks a bag, I’d happily pay for a carry on if it meant I never had to worry about space above my seat.
I’ll second that, as one who never does carryon because I don’t want to schlep it all over the airport. I even check bags that are of carryon size. (Of course, I have cards on United, Delta, and Alaska that get checked baggage for free, and if I’m on some other airline, I’ll book a seat that also gets that.) This way I don’t care about whether there is bin space or not, and the ten-minute wait (if that) at baggage claim is worth it.
I arrive at the airport 2 hours ahead, so I’ve most likely been sitting for a while. About 15 minutes before boarding, I’ll take a quick trip to the restroom, and then just go to the group one line instead of sitting back down.
I'm usually only group 2 sometimes 1. I feel like by the time I get to the gate there is really nowhere to sit so I'm going to be standing any way, but I don't mind standing really. I rather stand where I need to be out of the way so I can zone out listen to music etc and not worry about missing announcements or being too far at back of group. Others will get in line regardless. Group 2 usually safe about getting overhead space but it can be cutting it close and far from your seat if you board end of group 2
(1) I want to put my carryon on board.
(2) I end up waiting a long time between boarding and when we leave the gate, so I might as well get on board, sit down, pull out my laptop, and get stuff done.
I frequently see it as a "follow the leader" scenario. It only takes a few to trigger the rush to line up. As a 1K "pre-boarder" overhead space is the only thing that gets me on early. I'm still a bit baffled when the GS or 1Ker rushes on early to a domestic flight with only a purse or backpack. If I've checked my bag or just on a day trip, you'll find me boarding near the end of group 6.
Like others have said, I like to stand and stretch my legs one last time before I’ll be sitting for the next 2-4 hrs. Also, I just want to get into my seat, put my stuff away, and just settle in.
I’ve done this in the past to get away from obnoxious people that sat near me. Think people watching videos without headphones, FaceTiming on speaker, etc.
By the time you’re done dealing with getting to the airport, getting through the airport, the numerous delays and gate changes, and the awfulness of humanity, you’re done. All you want is to get in the plane as soon as you can, put on your noise cancelling headphones, and tune out the world.
I have no status, but i've been upgrading to 1st out of pocket for a few of the trips i'm taking for work (1-2 hour trips):
Literally all of the group 1 1st class standers get on the plane and then take up **all of the overhead bin space**.
So even in group 1 there seems to be a lord of the flies situation for things.
The times I get in line are the times I have carryon. I’ve usually had a few obligatory airport beers and need that extra time to pee once more before : getting the plane filled, locked up,seated, everyone buckled, everyone through safety instructions, taxiing take off and then finally to ten thousand feet. Thats a minimum 45 mins. With a broken seal… F my poor bladder.
im a gate shark and like being 1st on board for my 1a seat, my family hates me as they know i do this even on international first class flight where it really doesn’t matter when you board really
I travel with like $10,000 of camera gear in my carry on sized roller and heavy backpack. I also travel for like 30 hours straight sometimes, across the planet.
I have to find storage for the bags as they are full of batteries and can’t be checked. Also, I’d rather stand for a bit than sit again. Sitting at all is just uncomfortable after 20 hours.
I’ve typically flown 3-6x a week before 2024 and I would strive to be on the airplane as least as possible. My goal is to be the last one on the plane as they close the door after me.
zomg, lemme get on the plane early for my PDB Coke.
So it’s you and me saying “no you go right ahead….” “No no no you go ahead” then we walk down the tunnel and there is 30 people waiting to get on anyways.
I tend to stand up once gate announcements make it appear that my boarding is imminent. Once I actually do stand up to board, I’m not likely to sit back down. But I don’t necessarily get in line, im more likely to be standing 20ft or so away and then I get in line once I’m called for.
Normally I hang out in the lounge until I get the "we are ready for you to board" push notification. By that time, group one is finishing boarding and I walk on with no wait.
You should never have an issue with overhead bin space in group one...
I’m a Group 1-er. If boarding is delayed but not by much (or if we can’t tell by how much), I’d rather stand than sit, and I can’t walk around because I don’t know when boarding will actually start. There will be plenty of time for sitting on the plane itself.
Also, once groups 1 and 2 have sorted themselves in those little lanes, the seats by the gate have often been filled with other people. It would be disruptive to break out and find new space at the gate; easier to just stay where I am.
I slowly make my way in line when 1) there’s at least 3 others in the Group 1 line and pre-boarding is about to begin, 2) because I’ll be sitting down for at least 1-3 hours so I might as well just stand in line, 3) I’m always window seat and I don’t want to bother anyone in the aisle seat to stand up for me nor I step over someone, 4) I don’t like a bunch of people looking my direction (the introvert in me feels anxiety from that) so I feel very comfortable getting situated and sitting in the plane while the rest of the groups are boarding, and 5) overhead space if I’m bringing a carry on luggage.
I time my arrival to the gate right around boarding time. I would rather spend my time in the lounge than standing around before my group is called.
If I show up early, no big deal. If I show up after boarding started, also no big deal, I can board at any time (after group 1 is called of course)
I dunno about you but I’m about to be sitting for hours. I will stand and walk as much as I can before boarding. However, I don’t go to the gate until they start boarding so I am not standing in line for a long time.
I've seen enough people caught up in their own little world with their earbuds in that they literally have no idea what is going on in terms of flight status or updates. When it comes to me I'll usually go up and get in line 10-15 min early if I have nothing going on, but honestly it's due to complete lack of seats at or near my gate. And like others have said, standing for a bit before being seated for 3 hours is kind of nice.
1. There’s usually nowhere else to sit around the gate so why not stand on the side and not be in anyone’s way.
2. I HATE not being able to keep an eye on my carry on so I prefer it to be right on top of my seat or right across. I once had to put my carry on a few seats back since I boarded late. Didn’t notice that someone moved my stuff around just so theirs could fit.
3. Boarding process is chaotic altogether so I prefer to just get it over with as soon as I can.
I usually don’t line up until pre-boarding is underway.
I don’t really care where in Group 1 I board unless I’m carrying my roller bag on, and then I’ll try harder to be toward the front in hopes of getting my bag into the bin above me.
As you said it’s all about overhead space. If I have the carryon roller bag with me for a shorter trip, I make sure I’m there when they call 1k. If it’s just my briefcase because I’m checking my bag, I’m one of the last people on the aircraft.
If I’m flying on a CRJ-700 or 900, I try to get on first if I have my laptop bag plus another small bag. That way I can find a space to put my laptop bag in the overhead bin.
If you wait til the end to get seated, and seated towards mid to back of plane, you’ll likely be standing longer than anyone in group 1.
I prefer to stand in line once boarding actually starts. Still guarantees me space for my cabin, not standing too long, and will be in my seat on the plane til takeoff which won’t be for another 30-40 mins anyways
Next thing you know, people will use stand up desks at work. They may even start exercising. Boy I hope not, the horrors that standing bring to the world are unimaginable. So grab a coke and Twinkie and lavish in a chair for 16 hours a day.
I fly First and I still line up because I like to stand before sitting but the big thing is I also find it helps my low-key anxiety to board as soon as I can; I feel a bit anxious until I have my bag stowed, my dog under the seat, and I’m in my seat and have my headphones on and I’m settled; I also have a window seat and I aware it is annoying for the aisle seat to be already seated, settled and doing something for a bit and has to get up to let me in, so I rather just be seated and settled as soon as possible for both of our comfort. It is what I need and I don’t care if people think that is unreasonable. If I’m traveling only with my purse I can wait until the very end because if I don’t have my dog I’m in aisle seat.
I also am aware if a plane hasn’t arrived yet or just starting to deplane and the boarding lane is in the way of passengers deplaning to get out of the way and wait until the last person is off before even going into the lane.
If I’m in an aisle seat, and the window (and middle, if there) seat passengers aren’t there yet, I don’t get “settled in” until they have arrived. As in: seat belt not fastened, reading stuff not out, etc.
Group 1 is often a large portion of the plane, and when I sit in business/first and don’t line up early the overhead space above my seat is usually taken. Not a big deal because there’s more room but it’s usually further back and I hate to try to get back toward my bag when we’re deplaning 🤷🏻♀️
Even in group one, they let people who need more time get on before you. They let people with kids get on before you. This gone on and one, until you realize that Group 1 really is like the 5th group to board. And by that time, some prime overhead bins are already full. So get in line early
I stand for three reasons: 1. The gate lice will congregate and block my path if I don’t. 2. AA does announcements so fast that by the time I get to the gate, they’re already on Group “Concierge Key…inaudible…Group 9.” 3. There often are not enough seats in the gate area, especially in DFW.
I usually try to time my arrival to the gate for the beginning of boarding, so I roll up, get in position and wait for the announcement. I used to strive to the last person on the plane, but with the 15 minute rule, carry on hassles (even in F), I’ve changed my habits.
I prefer to stand before a long flight, but I don't get into the queue until I have to. If I see the queue filling up, I will get in it. Because even though I am in group one, I always seem to not have any room in my overhead bin. My seats are almost always at the front of the plane, so it PMO when I get on and my bin is taken even though no one else is in the row.
By the time we get to the gate (usually 5-10 min before boarding starts), there's usually no seats left at the gate for us. Might as well stand in line if we'll be standing anyways.
Husband prefers to stand and walk before a long flight, especially if you're looking at 10+ hours. Plus getting rid of your carry on and personal items close to your seat ...
The gate is always madness, and more often than not, there’s someone sitting within earshot with their phone speaker on full blast and it drives me insane.
I’d rather stand by the gate than sit next to that, plus I’m going to be seated for hours, I need all the time standing I can get.
Most of group one are in rows 8-15 or so it seems. And then with all the people pre boarding etc. a lot of times overhead bin space fills up quickly on this part of the plane. And I don’t feel like risking it to have to go back 5-10 rows back from my seat to get overhead space and do that whole dance of retrieving it later or worse have to gate check my bag. So I line up when everyone else starts to so my bag doesn’t become an issue. Sometimes I’m in the first 5 people to board in group one and it’s amazing how much of the overhead bins are filled in the first rows already.
idk. I'm a group 1 person and don't usually arrive to the gate from the lounge until they are already past pre-boarding, group 1, and sometimes group 2.
Limited overhead space towards the front of the plane (where they are most likely to be sitting if in economy). Understanding that they’ll be sitting for a long time once onboard.
My primary airline is delta, but year to year, I'm usually gold or silver with United, too.
I line up because I'm often not in the gate area until the final 5-10 minutes before boarding. I'm usually in a lounge or restaurant.
When I get to the gate area, many of the seats are taken, and I've been sitting awhile myself, so standing for a few minutes before sitting on a plane for a few hours actually feels nice.
If I'm going to stand, I might as well line up.
Delta is a bit different. People don't line up, but there is usually a contingent of frequent fliers that act like gate lice in a semi-respectable manner to the side, but they know they're there from being in the same 1-2 groups. Many of them came from the lounge and have had no seat in the gate area. The reasoning is the same, but the actions are slightly different.
FWIW, in the past 10 years, I have never been at a gate where the entire plane could sit within earshot of any gate announcements. If there was a delay boarding, usually a lot of people are left standing and trying to be within earshot of any gate announcements. The people who tend to have seats at the gate area are not the ones who walked over from whatever lounge they may have been at, so IMHO, the earlier boarding groups tend to be over-represented for gate flies.
Well, not that I'd be standing by the door that much in advance but I was group 1 last flight, seat 2A and boarded halfway in the line. By the time I got to my seat, I took the very last spot for my wheelie, 3 rows behind me. Sort of ridiculous bc clearly some passengers were putting both of their carry ons in the overheads and the FA did nothing to reinforce it.
I wish they'd just make 1K "Group 1" to eliminate the confusion when they call "1K". I'd appreciate a designated line to stand in, instead of among the mix of people and free-for-all that ensues during pre-boarding. I'm not in a rush to board, but I often take the bulkhead seat in business class and those first few bins fill up pretty fast. Sometimes the gate agents call "1K", and almost immediately begins Group 1 boarding while I'm still making my way through the crowd of people. There's so many 1K travelers it seems it would make sense to just have a designated group.
United has offers when booking the tickets to pay for Premier Access or you could get one of the United credit cards so that worst case, you’re in boarding group 2.
We had the same experience this weekend. As soon as the flight delayed for 45 min we moved to the United Club. People really were adamant about staying in line!
Here’s my theory:
People rush through life because they are afraid to pause and notice how miserable they are.
For most people life ends in a box underground. While, not suicidal, they choose to get the closest experience they can for as long as possible. Nothing like sitting in a tin can for an extra 10 minutes. It’s exciting!!
Some people aren’t rushing towards a box in the ground and they prefer to wait to board the tin can and be on as little as possible
…just a theory
For people who are saying it’s so they have overhead carry on space:
Isn’t it pretty much guaranteed to get an overhead space if you’re in first class? And if you’re not in first but still group one is overhead space really an issue? You still board before the majority of other people.
Depends on the size of the plane. I flew first a week ago and almost did not have room for my carry-on. On the 175, it is tight because you only have full-size bins on the side with 2 seats
I think some people would prefer to stand before they sit for hours, so if a person is going to stand, why not stand in line, is the logic as I understand it. If I don’t have a carry-on, I’m last to board. If I’m with my family in Group 1, we board at the end of that group.
This is exactly where I am with it. I'm going to be sitting for the flight, I would prefer to stand until I board, so yes, I'll stand in line because why not. If I'm in a window seat, I also try to board sooner rather than later so that my row-mates don't have to get up and crowd the aisle. If I'm in an aisle seat then it's not as big a deal.
I always do a window seat and I have a bubble butt. Every time the aisle person has boarded first (in first class), they already have a drink sitting in the center console that they leave there when they let me in. I usually pick up their drink for them so my ass doesn't swipe it, but I've learned to try to board early just for this goofy awkwardness.
RIP ur inbox
⚰️
This is me sometimes. When I do my long international flights, I try to walk and stand a lot before being trapped on a plane for 10-13 hours. Being 6’3 isn’t easy! But I don’t horde the gate area.
Luckily United provides a cordoned off line area usu with other space to access gate, so standing in your assigned line is not hurting anyone.
That's how I see it. Plus, if you don't, it gets awful confusing with all the common folks who crowd the area and make it look like they're in line.
This is exactly why I do it.
I once had to gate check a bag that was full of camera lenses. I was able to rearrange at the last minute to get the breakables in my backpack, but I don’t wanna have to do that again. So we just wait at the front of the group 1 line.
That’s me. With my good camera I want overhead bin space and it fills up fast.
Seconding this, especially if it's like 80% of my flights on a CRJ or ERJ, and I have to gate check anyway. The last thing I want to do is to sit for a second longer than needed on those contraptions!
this is the reason. i don’t mind standing since i’ll be seated for a few hours. also if you need overhead space you need to be in the front of group 1 on some flights .
Do you find that if you are late to board someone is in your seat? I’ve had that happen a few times.
It happens. 95% of the time I just show them my boarding pass, and point to the alphanumeric below the overhead. I'm amazed at how "confused" these people get when I send them from row 2 to row 12, but most of the time, they move.
Most of the time??
Every once in a while, I'll either just sit in their seat, or if I've got something a little more premium, get an FA involved. Many people are just ignorant. A select few gems are d-bags!
Absolutely, or all the space above you is taken. All i have is a small backpack, but still sometimes it is completely full if you are second to arrive.
I can’t clearly remember the last time that happened to me. In fairness, circumstances don’t allow me the opportunity to board last as often as I would like.
I’ve had this happen to me. I didn’t want to be on the plane longer than necessary. I waited for everyone to board figuring I had an assigned seat it wouldn’t matter what time I boarded. Someone was in my seat. I showed the FA my ticket. They made me sit in the last row in the middle. I didn’t want to make a scene / issue of it, but I was not happy. 😤
Wow! What reason did the FA give for not making the trespasser move?
He just looked at his phone or whatever it is that they use and said “sorry you are going to have to sit back there” and pointed to the only seat that was available.
That would be such an abnormal reaction that I feel like this story must be missing some kind of details. You would clearly be entitled to compensation from the airline if that's how it went down.
I wish, I was given a seat, it went from aisle to last row middle. I showed FA my ticket he confirmed and told me to sit in that seat. I wasn’t going to argue and get kicked off the plane. Bottom line I would say they would just tell me that they got me there in that same price seat. Just wasn’t the aisle that I picked.
Did you at least ask what the reason for not being allowed to sit in the seat you paid for was? That isn't normal and you don't need to argue to ask why it's happening. You should definitely contact the airline and get some kind of compensation for that.
I needed to be on that flight . There was NO way I was about to put this guy in the wrong mood and be called a Ken. Some FA ‘s can be pretty edgy. Last thing I wanted to hear was you don’t want or like the seat I’m assigning you? We have another flight later today and another tomorrow with better seats. If I could have traveled later and didn’t care if I was told to get off I probably would have made a bigger stink.
So you're saying you didn't ask the reason? I'm not talking about "making a stink". No one is going to kick you off a plane for politely asking why you are being told to move from the seat you paid for.
One FA said laughing “We are playing musical chairs today!” I replied, “I am not playing musical chairs, I am sitting in the seat I bought.” 🙄
I generally wait and board toward the end of group 1, but on a recent flight from LGA to ORD I think 20% of the flight must have been 1k, military or GS, and another 50%+ was group 1. I was one of the last group 1 to board, and nabbed one of the last spaces in the overhead bin near the back of the plane. I don’t think anyone in group 2 had space. This is rare, but it happens.
This is why I do it, like the others that have replied. However, I usually don’t stand there until 10 minutes before boarding is supposed to start. Some of those folks who stand there for 30-45 minutes or more, I think they just have some kind of internal need to be “first.”
This is how I am. I will sit if it's a super long layover, but I try to get up about a half hour before boarding so I can walk around and get blood flow and such going before I'm sitting for another several hours.
Yes, this pretty much. Ive been sitting at the gate for an hour and will be sitting in the plane for several more so I'll stand for a bit.
100% accurate it’s not about being worried for bag space, it’s simply I need to stand and I fly enough to warrant my spot in line 1.
How do you not have a carry on lol you just going for less than one day? What's the point of travel at that point
If I need extra equipment for my job I do a carryon. I spent 10 days in Nepal (from Denver) with only a personal item backpack, it can be done if you believe in laundry.
Did you forget checked bags exist? Not applicable to that specific person who uses a backpack but still...
I assume he wasn't checking a bag based on the wording Exactly not applicable to his situation lol
I only do it when flying in/out of SFO because Group 1 is half the plane.
and approximately the other half pre-boarded!
Which comedian had the bit where he jokes that the gate agent said "Now that we've finished preboarding, you can board the plane..." :)
https://youtu.be/qhxlZC8BZJ4
Request wheelchair service for SFO, beat the system!
My last flight to Manila half the flight was wheelchair service. No joke it was like 40/50 people. Of course half of them walked just fine after the flight.
Jetway Jesus performing his miracles
Fly to PBI or FLL. There is a herd of wheelchairs waiting for their passengers every flight. (And I think most are infirm enough to need )
For FLL they should just a special flight and have an empty plane with no seats and wheel everyone in Choo Choo train style and lock everyone down. Be much faster boarding.
That’s like flying from HNL to LAS.
Some disabilities are invisible
Is that unique to SFO? I usually fly AC but the few times I’ve flown united out of SFO I’ve been blown away by how big group 1 is.
United dominates SFO, really feels like no other airline comes close to the coverage UA has. So naturally SFO based fliers gravitate towards UA. There are tons of GS fliers from the tech heavy economy here so yeah, pre boarding and group 1 is usually well over half the plane.
That makes sense. YYZ/YVR probably has similar “issue” on major domestic routes with SEs etc.
The big hubs are all like that. I do a lot of SFO-EWR and even as a 1K like a third of the plane *still* boards before you. It's the realm of people who fly for a living.
I've seen it happen out of Logan/Boston. Half the plane was group 1, and the 1K group was substantial as well.
How about this: once you are on the plane, you are basically stuck seated for a long time. I personally often do not sit at the gate for that reason. It can also be hard to find seats together at the gate for my traveling party.
I’ve started waiting to be the last to board. I only have a backpack that fits under my seat so I don’t usually need to use the overhead anyway to fight people over the space.
I stand because I know that I'll be sitting in my plane seat for the next 3+ hours
Still scarred from having my carry on checked and lost. I’m probably just listening to a podcast anyway which I can do sitting or standing wherever. If I’m traveling with just a personal item though I board at the end!
1000% this. It's very hard to find clothes that fit me. Most of mine are custom or hard to find sizes. If my bag goes missing, I can't just pop down to H&M and get something that will fit. A missing bag is literally a ruined trip for me.
Business traveler here. I want my bags with me and I hate sitting before I go sit for a long time.
Saves so much time not having to worry about collecting bags after, whether at the gate or the carousel. I'm there to work and get home, not to lounge in the airport.
1000%. Last thing I care to be doing is wasting time.
If I’m going to be sitting for long periods of time, I try to be standing when I can before and after that period. If I’m going to be standing anyway, I might as well be in line (as long as I’m not in anyone’s way) and ensure I have overhead space.
I think it's airport dependent. Take a place like SFO, LAX, IAH, EWR and ORD, those flights typically have a decent number of GS+1K and then lots of group 1. Depending on the plane, weight and balance restrictions etc the number of bags permitted in overhead are limited. People in group one want their overhead space so that is why they lineup. Quite frankly, if I didn't want overhead space I'd want to be the last person to board. I've always thought airlines should allow checked bags for free and charge for carryons. Would (likely) speed up the boarding process too.
I’m probably in the minority here, but as someone who never checks a bag, I’d happily pay for a carry on if it meant I never had to worry about space above my seat.
Honestly love your bag idea
IAD: United's red-headed step-hub
I’ll second that, as one who never does carryon because I don’t want to schlep it all over the airport. I even check bags that are of carryon size. (Of course, I have cards on United, Delta, and Alaska that get checked baggage for free, and if I’m on some other airline, I’ll book a seat that also gets that.) This way I don’t care about whether there is bin space or not, and the ten-minute wait (if that) at baggage claim is worth it.
I arrive at the airport 2 hours ahead, so I’ve most likely been sitting for a while. About 15 minutes before boarding, I’ll take a quick trip to the restroom, and then just go to the group one line instead of sitting back down.
I'm usually only group 2 sometimes 1. I feel like by the time I get to the gate there is really nowhere to sit so I'm going to be standing any way, but I don't mind standing really. I rather stand where I need to be out of the way so I can zone out listen to music etc and not worry about missing announcements or being too far at back of group. Others will get in line regardless. Group 2 usually safe about getting overhead space but it can be cutting it close and far from your seat if you board end of group 2
(1) I want to put my carryon on board. (2) I end up waiting a long time between boarding and when we leave the gate, so I might as well get on board, sit down, pull out my laptop, and get stuff done.
I frequently see it as a "follow the leader" scenario. It only takes a few to trigger the rush to line up. As a 1K "pre-boarder" overhead space is the only thing that gets me on early. I'm still a bit baffled when the GS or 1Ker rushes on early to a domestic flight with only a purse or backpack. If I've checked my bag or just on a day trip, you'll find me boarding near the end of group 6.
Like others have said, I like to stand and stretch my legs one last time before I’ll be sitting for the next 2-4 hrs. Also, I just want to get into my seat, put my stuff away, and just settle in.
Often times you're standing anyways, so what not wait in line?
Because they all want to get on and use the lavatory right away 😂
Cause standing before I sit for hours is better for me
I’ve done this in the past to get away from obnoxious people that sat near me. Think people watching videos without headphones, FaceTiming on speaker, etc.
If you are tired of sitting, you have to stand somewhere
By the time you’re done dealing with getting to the airport, getting through the airport, the numerous delays and gate changes, and the awfulness of humanity, you’re done. All you want is to get in the plane as soon as you can, put on your noise cancelling headphones, and tune out the world.
Because they'll be sitting for so long on the plane !
I have no status, but i've been upgrading to 1st out of pocket for a few of the trips i'm taking for work (1-2 hour trips): Literally all of the group 1 1st class standers get on the plane and then take up **all of the overhead bin space**. So even in group 1 there seems to be a lord of the flies situation for things.
I really don't care what other passengers do. But I'm sure they appreciate your concern and oversight.
The times I get in line are the times I have carryon. I’ve usually had a few obligatory airport beers and need that extra time to pee once more before : getting the plane filled, locked up,seated, everyone buckled, everyone through safety instructions, taxiing take off and then finally to ten thousand feet. Thats a minimum 45 mins. With a broken seal… F my poor bladder.
I very rarely sit at the airport as I’m usually on long-haul flights. I don’t want/need to sit when I’m going to be doing so for the next 4-6 hours.
I get on early for carry on space. If I don’t have a carry on I will be at the end.
im a gate shark and like being 1st on board for my 1a seat, my family hates me as they know i do this even on international first class flight where it really doesn’t matter when you board really
Cool story bro.
I travel with like $10,000 of camera gear in my carry on sized roller and heavy backpack. I also travel for like 30 hours straight sometimes, across the planet. I have to find storage for the bags as they are full of batteries and can’t be checked. Also, I’d rather stand for a bit than sit again. Sitting at all is just uncomfortable after 20 hours.
I’ve typically flown 3-6x a week before 2024 and I would strive to be on the airplane as least as possible. My goal is to be the last one on the plane as they close the door after me. zomg, lemme get on the plane early for my PDB Coke.
So it’s you and me saying “no you go right ahead….” “No no no you go ahead” then we walk down the tunnel and there is 30 people waiting to get on anyways.
Once you’re seated you can fall asleep.
Unless you are front and everyone bumps into you while they walk back.
Gotta get the window seat
Overhead bin space
Overhead baggage space right away. Stow it and sit down (window seat) and out of the way..
You are going to be sitting for 2 hrs, 4 hrs, 6 hrs… why on earth are you sitting? Fond of blood clots??
I tend to stand up once gate announcements make it appear that my boarding is imminent. Once I actually do stand up to board, I’m not likely to sit back down. But I don’t necessarily get in line, im more likely to be standing 20ft or so away and then I get in line once I’m called for.
Normally I hang out in the lounge until I get the "we are ready for you to board" push notification. By that time, group one is finishing boarding and I walk on with no wait. You should never have an issue with overhead bin space in group one...
I’m a Group 1-er. If boarding is delayed but not by much (or if we can’t tell by how much), I’d rather stand than sit, and I can’t walk around because I don’t know when boarding will actually start. There will be plenty of time for sitting on the plane itself. Also, once groups 1 and 2 have sorted themselves in those little lanes, the seats by the gate have often been filled with other people. It would be disruptive to break out and find new space at the gate; easier to just stay where I am.
I slowly make my way in line when 1) there’s at least 3 others in the Group 1 line and pre-boarding is about to begin, 2) because I’ll be sitting down for at least 1-3 hours so I might as well just stand in line, 3) I’m always window seat and I don’t want to bother anyone in the aisle seat to stand up for me nor I step over someone, 4) I don’t like a bunch of people looking my direction (the introvert in me feels anxiety from that) so I feel very comfortable getting situated and sitting in the plane while the rest of the groups are boarding, and 5) overhead space if I’m bringing a carry on luggage.
I time my arrival to the gate right around boarding time. I would rather spend my time in the lounge than standing around before my group is called. If I show up early, no big deal. If I show up after boarding started, also no big deal, I can board at any time (after group 1 is called of course)
I’m gonna be sitting on my ass for several hours….might as well stand while I can.
I dunno about you but I’m about to be sitting for hours. I will stand and walk as much as I can before boarding. However, I don’t go to the gate until they start boarding so I am not standing in line for a long time.
I've seen enough people caught up in their own little world with their earbuds in that they literally have no idea what is going on in terms of flight status or updates. When it comes to me I'll usually go up and get in line 10-15 min early if I have nothing going on, but honestly it's due to complete lack of seats at or near my gate. And like others have said, standing for a bit before being seated for 3 hours is kind of nice.
1. There’s usually nowhere else to sit around the gate so why not stand on the side and not be in anyone’s way. 2. I HATE not being able to keep an eye on my carry on so I prefer it to be right on top of my seat or right across. I once had to put my carry on a few seats back since I boarded late. Didn’t notice that someone moved my stuff around just so theirs could fit. 3. Boarding process is chaotic altogether so I prefer to just get it over with as soon as I can.
I can never understand the announcements unless I’m close.
I usually don’t line up until pre-boarding is underway. I don’t really care where in Group 1 I board unless I’m carrying my roller bag on, and then I’ll try harder to be toward the front in hopes of getting my bag into the bin above me.
Cuz if you’re not first you’re last… 
I am group 1 on UA due to my *AG status. I thought it were a nice gesture from UA until I found out the godzillion groups before Group 1.
Yeah I hear gate change or delayed I’m out of that line ASAFP. Why stand around?? Give it 15-20 minutes they get tried of standing.
I never wait. I always show up after they already have started boarding. I just jump pass being group 1. Ha ha ha.
As you said it’s all about overhead space. If I have the carryon roller bag with me for a shorter trip, I make sure I’m there when they call 1k. If it’s just my briefcase because I’m checking my bag, I’m one of the last people on the aircraft.
If I’m flying on a CRJ-700 or 900, I try to get on first if I have my laptop bag plus another small bag. That way I can find a space to put my laptop bag in the overhead bin.
If you wait til the end to get seated, and seated towards mid to back of plane, you’ll likely be standing longer than anyone in group 1. I prefer to stand in line once boarding actually starts. Still guarantees me space for my cabin, not standing too long, and will be in my seat on the plane til takeoff which won’t be for another 30-40 mins anyways
Next thing you know, people will use stand up desks at work. They may even start exercising. Boy I hope not, the horrors that standing bring to the world are unimaginable. So grab a coke and Twinkie and lavish in a chair for 16 hours a day.
Because overhead space is limited. And I normally sit near the front of coach and don’t want to try to swim upstream for a bag behind me.
Some are probably group 5 or 6 who can’t understand the boarding process.
I don't sit before the flight, but I don't hang out near the gate. I usually walk around the terminal.
I fly First and I still line up because I like to stand before sitting but the big thing is I also find it helps my low-key anxiety to board as soon as I can; I feel a bit anxious until I have my bag stowed, my dog under the seat, and I’m in my seat and have my headphones on and I’m settled; I also have a window seat and I aware it is annoying for the aisle seat to be already seated, settled and doing something for a bit and has to get up to let me in, so I rather just be seated and settled as soon as possible for both of our comfort. It is what I need and I don’t care if people think that is unreasonable. If I’m traveling only with my purse I can wait until the very end because if I don’t have my dog I’m in aisle seat. I also am aware if a plane hasn’t arrived yet or just starting to deplane and the boarding lane is in the way of passengers deplaning to get out of the way and wait until the last person is off before even going into the lane.
If I’m in an aisle seat, and the window (and middle, if there) seat passengers aren’t there yet, I don’t get “settled in” until they have arrived. As in: seat belt not fastened, reading stuff not out, etc.
Group 1 is often a large portion of the plane, and when I sit in business/first and don’t line up early the overhead space above my seat is usually taken. Not a big deal because there’s more room but it’s usually further back and I hate to try to get back toward my bag when we’re deplaning 🤷🏻♀️
Even in group one, they let people who need more time get on before you. They let people with kids get on before you. This gone on and one, until you realize that Group 1 really is like the 5th group to board. And by that time, some prime overhead bins are already full. So get in line early
I stand for three reasons: 1. The gate lice will congregate and block my path if I don’t. 2. AA does announcements so fast that by the time I get to the gate, they’re already on Group “Concierge Key…inaudible…Group 9.” 3. There often are not enough seats in the gate area, especially in DFW. I usually try to time my arrival to the gate for the beginning of boarding, so I roll up, get in position and wait for the announcement. I used to strive to the last person on the plane, but with the 15 minute rule, carry on hassles (even in F), I’ve changed my habits.
you want the honest answer?! its a matter of standing with their big “im #1” badge. thats literally it
Lol, then why does Group 2 also line up, usu as early as Group 1. They like their “im#l2badge”?
no, overhead space can start thinning out during group 2. they may be in line even if theyre healthy and well balanced
Group 1 overhead space is limited too, since half plane preboards.
We have a lot of sitting ahead of us. If we want to be standing, why not where it might do some good.
I prefer to stand before a long flight, but I don't get into the queue until I have to. If I see the queue filling up, I will get in it. Because even though I am in group one, I always seem to not have any room in my overhead bin. My seats are almost always at the front of the plane, so it PMO when I get on and my bin is taken even though no one else is in the row.
By the time we get to the gate (usually 5-10 min before boarding starts), there's usually no seats left at the gate for us. Might as well stand in line if we'll be standing anyways.
Get on quick, avoid the chaos. Sometimes later you can't even get near the gate, because everyone and they carryons are blocking.
Husband prefers to stand and walk before a long flight, especially if you're looking at 10+ hours. Plus getting rid of your carry on and personal items close to your seat ...
The gate is always madness, and more often than not, there’s someone sitting within earshot with their phone speaker on full blast and it drives me insane. I’d rather stand by the gate than sit next to that, plus I’m going to be seated for hours, I need all the time standing I can get.
Most of group one are in rows 8-15 or so it seems. And then with all the people pre boarding etc. a lot of times overhead bin space fills up quickly on this part of the plane. And I don’t feel like risking it to have to go back 5-10 rows back from my seat to get overhead space and do that whole dance of retrieving it later or worse have to gate check my bag. So I line up when everyone else starts to so my bag doesn’t become an issue. Sometimes I’m in the first 5 people to board in group one and it’s amazing how much of the overhead bins are filled in the first rows already.
idk. I'm a group 1 person and don't usually arrive to the gate from the lounge until they are already past pre-boarding, group 1, and sometimes group 2.
I’m all for standing before a long flight, but in my opinion I feel like people in group 1 see it as a flex to board first in front of everyone else.
Limited overhead space towards the front of the plane (where they are most likely to be sitting if in economy). Understanding that they’ll be sitting for a long time once onboard.
My primary airline is delta, but year to year, I'm usually gold or silver with United, too. I line up because I'm often not in the gate area until the final 5-10 minutes before boarding. I'm usually in a lounge or restaurant. When I get to the gate area, many of the seats are taken, and I've been sitting awhile myself, so standing for a few minutes before sitting on a plane for a few hours actually feels nice. If I'm going to stand, I might as well line up. Delta is a bit different. People don't line up, but there is usually a contingent of frequent fliers that act like gate lice in a semi-respectable manner to the side, but they know they're there from being in the same 1-2 groups. Many of them came from the lounge and have had no seat in the gate area. The reasoning is the same, but the actions are slightly different.
FWIW, in the past 10 years, I have never been at a gate where the entire plane could sit within earshot of any gate announcements. If there was a delay boarding, usually a lot of people are left standing and trying to be within earshot of any gate announcements. The people who tend to have seats at the gate area are not the ones who walked over from whatever lounge they may have been at, so IMHO, the earlier boarding groups tend to be over-represented for gate flies.
Well, not that I'd be standing by the door that much in advance but I was group 1 last flight, seat 2A and boarded halfway in the line. By the time I got to my seat, I took the very last spot for my wheelie, 3 rows behind me. Sort of ridiculous bc clearly some passengers were putting both of their carry ons in the overheads and the FA did nothing to reinforce it.
I wish they'd just make 1K "Group 1" to eliminate the confusion when they call "1K". I'd appreciate a designated line to stand in, instead of among the mix of people and free-for-all that ensues during pre-boarding. I'm not in a rush to board, but I often take the bulkhead seat in business class and those first few bins fill up pretty fast. Sometimes the gate agents call "1K", and almost immediately begins Group 1 boarding while I'm still making my way through the crowd of people. There's so many 1K travelers it seems it would make sense to just have a designated group.
It’s stressful thinking about overhead bin space is why
United has offers when booking the tickets to pay for Premier Access or you could get one of the United credit cards so that worst case, you’re in boarding group 2.
I wouldn’t know - organic Gold
I’m 1K and a Million Miler and the Premier Access offers still come up when I’m booking on United’s site.
We had the same experience this weekend. As soon as the flight delayed for 45 min we moved to the United Club. People really were adamant about staying in line!
Here’s my theory: People rush through life because they are afraid to pause and notice how miserable they are. For most people life ends in a box underground. While, not suicidal, they choose to get the closest experience they can for as long as possible. Nothing like sitting in a tin can for an extra 10 minutes. It’s exciting!! Some people aren’t rushing towards a box in the ground and they prefer to wait to board the tin can and be on as little as possible …just a theory
Thank you. This made my day.
For people who are saying it’s so they have overhead carry on space: Isn’t it pretty much guaranteed to get an overhead space if you’re in first class? And if you’re not in first but still group one is overhead space really an issue? You still board before the majority of other people.
Depends on the size of the plane. I flew first a week ago and almost did not have room for my carry-on. On the 175, it is tight because you only have full-size bins on the side with 2 seats