Airline preboard

[G00fyDad]

What are the conditions that will allow someone to preboard? I have never had to do it before but this is my kids first plane trip.

 

[dudspizza]

Typically they say "those with young chidren or those needing extra time or assistance may board at this time." My airline then starts with the back of the plane and boards forward.... your airline may vary.

duds

 

[G00fyDad]

I hope its like that. DS is a handful. He thinks he is Mr. Independant and requires no assistance from either me or his mother. He's a year and a half. LOL

 

[Michelle2]

If I remember correctly, it's families with children under 5 that are allowed to preboard....but I could be mistaken.

 

[DebbieB]

It depends on the gate agent. If there are alot of families, they sometimes will not allow preboards for children.

 

[CarolA]

Depends on the airline. I have not seen Delta or some of the others preboard families in quite a while.

 

[gw_lit]

If you feel you need to pre-board, ask the agent at the ticket counter at the gate. Most airlines now don't announce pre-boarding, but will discreetly let those pre-board that need it. If you're installing a carseat, you may have a good case to pre-board, but its really up to the agent.

On Southwest, pre-boarding is allowing for families travelling with children age 5 or younger, although it can be suspended or restricted at times if there are a lot of families on a particular flight (particulary out of Orlando).

 

[seashoreCM]

You don't really need to preboard. Airlines offer it because they feel turnaround will be quicker and departure will be sooner.

If you need time to get settled, take it without saying a word. Correction, at least ask the gate agent so he can try to plan boarding time the way he wants.

Disney hints:
http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/disney.htm