Everything Explained About Alaska Airlines Boarding Groups

When flying with Alaska Airlines, understanding the boarding process is key to a smoother, more relaxed journey. Alaska Airlines offers a structured boarding system that ensures passengers board efficiently based on fare class, elite status, and other qualifiers. In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know about Alaska Airlines boarding groups, from how they work to tips for boarding early and maximizing your travel experience.

Understanding Alaska Airlines Boarding Process

Alaska Airlines uses a boarding group system designed to prioritize loyalty members and passengers who require special assistance, while also ensuring general boarding proceeds smoothly. Boarding begins approximately 40 minutes prior to departure, and the boarding gate closes 20 minutes before departure.

The boarding process is divided into the following priority levels:

Pre-Boarding: Special Assistance and Families

Passengers who qualify for pre-boarding include:

• Passengers with disabilities

• Unaccompanied minors

• Families traveling with small children under 2 years old

• Active-duty U.S. military personnel in uniform

These passengers are invited to board before all other groups. It’s important to arrive early and speak with a gate agent if you qualify.

Group A: First Class and MVP Gold 100K Members

Group A receives the highest priority boarding:

• First Class ticket holders

• MVP Gold 100K members

• One world Emerald elite status holders

These passengers are among the first to board, ensuring they have ample overhead bin space and a premium boarding experience.

Group B: MVP Gold and MVP Gold 75K Members

Group B includes:

• MVP Gold members

• MVP Gold 75K members

• One world Sapphire members

These elite members board after Group A and enjoy benefits such as early seat selection, complimentary upgrades, and extra checked baggage.

Group C: MVP Members

Group C includes:

• MVP members (entry-level elite tier)

• One world Ruby status holders

MVP status can be earned by flying a minimum of 20,000 miles on Alaska Airlines or partner flights within a calendar year.

Group D: Premium Class Passengers

Passengers with Premium Class seats board in Group D. Premium Class offers more legroom, early boarding, and complimentary alcoholic beverages. It's a great option for travelers looking for enhanced comfort without the full First Class price.

Group E: Main Cabin Passengers

Group E is for Main Cabin ticket holders who are not Mileage Plan elite members. Boarding within this group is still relatively early, allowing travelers to secure space in overhead bins.

Within this group, seat location may influence the boarding order. For example, travelers in the rear of the aircraft may be called before those seated toward the front, to speed up boarding.

Group F: Saver Fare Passengers

Passengers holding Saver Fare tickets are boarded in Group F, which is the final boarding group. Saver fares are Alaska’s version of a basic economy ticket.

Important restrictions for Saver Fare passengers include:

• No seat selection until check-in (and often assigned in the back of the plane)

• Last to board

• Limited flexibility and change fees

To avoid the limitations of Group F, consider upgrading to Main Cabin or Premium Class when booking.

How to Improve Your Alaska Airlines Boarding Group

Join Alaska Mileage Plan

By joining the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan, you can start earning elite status and move into earlier boarding groups. Even low-tier MVP status puts you ahead of general passengers.

Book Higher Fare Classes

Purchasing Premium Class or First Class guarantees a better boarding group, more comfortable seating, and additional perks such as free drinks and priority baggage.

Get an Alaska Airlines Credit Card

Holders of the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card enjoy additional benefits, including free checked bags and priority boarding, depending on ticket type and availability.

Consider One world Partner Status

Frequent travelers on One world alliance partners (like British Airways, American Airlines, etc.) can benefit from reciprocal elite status, helping them board in Groups A-C.

Tips for a Smoother Boarding Experience

Arrive Early

Being at the gate at least 45 minutes before departure ensures you’re ready when your group is called.

Pay Attention to Boarding Announcements

Each group is clearly called, so listen closely. Alaska Airlines boarding gates also display boarding group numbers on digital screens.

Use the Mobile App

The Alaska Airlines mobile app shows your boarding group, flight updates, and digital boarding pass. This eliminates confusion and saves time at the airport.

Travel Light

Traveling with only a carry-on and personal item helps you board and disembark quickly. Those in later groups should expect less overhead bin space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do Alaska Airlines boarding groups vary by aircraft?

Yes. On regional flights operated by Horizon or SkyWest, aircraft are smaller, and boarding may be simplified. Gate agents will adjust the process accordingly.

Can families board together if they’re in different groups?

Typically, families with children under 2 can pre-board. For others, boarding together depends on the lowest assigned group. It’s often helpful to speak with a gate agent.

What if I miss my boarding group?

If your group has already boarded, the gate agents will direct you to board with the next group. However, it's best to be attentive and ready when your group is called.

Conclusion

Understanding the Alaska Airlines boarding groups helps you board confidently and enjoy a more seamless travel experience. From loyalty perks to fare choices, Alaska’s system rewards prepared and loyal travelers. By planning ahead and choosing the right fare or credit card, you can secure a better boarding position and start your journey stress-free.