American Airlines Announces Change to Boarding Times

American Airlines is making some changes to its boarding process.

The changes go into place on May 1, 2025, American Airlines wrote in an April 16, 2025, press release.

"Starting May 1, American will refine the boarding process by updating boarding groups and adding an additional five minutes of boarding time," the press release says.

Among the changes, according to American Airlines are "updated groups for easier preboarding."

"American will preboard First and Business customers, along with those who need additional time before beginning to board by group, including families with children ages 2 and under. AAdvantage status members keep the same group they use today when traveling in Main Cabin," the airline wrote.

"Slightly more time coupled with updated boarding groups will allow for a better paced boarding process and better management of overhead bin space, which means three key wins for the airline’s customers," American Airlines wrote, citing the following:

"Fewer carry-on bags will need to be checked at the departure gate. Customers will have more time to get settled and find their seats, and receive support from flight attendants when needed. Those in the premium cabin will experience the personalized service that they know and expect."

How much time will people have to board? American wrote:

"Airbus A319, A320 aircraft: 35 minutes

Boeing 737, Airbus A321 and all widebody aircraft: 40 minutes."

The airline "will add a few minutes to the time allotted for boarding, and will also shake up some of the boarding groups," Fodors reported. 

Specifically, American Airlines will move "some premium cabin passengers further to the front of the line alongside its most frequent fliers," according to Fodors.

American Airlines is adding an extra five minutes to the boarding process, the site reported.