Tips for Hassle-Free Travel Using Alaska Airlines Boarding Groups

When flying with Alaska Airlines, understanding the boarding process can significantly enhance your travel experience. With an organized system in place, Alaska Airlines ensures smooth and timely departures. This comprehensive guide will walk you through Alaska Airlines boarding groups, priority rules, tips to board early, and how to make your journey more seamless.

Overview of Alaska Airlines Boarding Process

Alaska Airlines employs a structured and tiered boarding process to facilitate a smooth and efficient passenger experience. The boarding is executed in groups, prioritized by fare class, elite status, and special needs. The process begins with pre-boarding and follows a carefully outlined order designed to streamline the boarding flow and reduce congestion at the gate.

Detailed Breakdown of Alaska Airlines Boarding Groups

Pre-Boarding

Pre-boarding is offered to specific travelers requiring additional time or assistance. This includes:

• Passengers with disabilities

• Families traveling with small children or infants

• Active-duty U.S. military personnel

• Unaccompanied minors

These individuals are invited to board before any other group to allow extra time and support.

Group A – First Class and Elites

Group A includes:

• First Class ticket holders

• MVP Gold 100K, MVP Gold 75K, MVP Gold, and MVP elite members of the Mileage Plan®

• One world Emerald, Sapphire, and Ruby members

These passengers enjoy premium boarding privileges, offering early access to overhead bin space and more time to settle in comfortably.

Group B – Premium Class Passengers

Passengers flying in Premium Class board in Group B. Premium Class provides additional legroom, priority boarding, and complimentary drinks. These seats are situated in the front part of the main cabin, and boarding early ensures more storage space and a relaxed onboarding experience.

Group C – Main Cabin Select Guests

Group C includes:

• Main Cabin passengers seated towards the front of the aircraft (rows closer to the Premium Class)

• Mileage Plan members without elite status

• Travelers who have purchased a Main Cabin fare and do not qualify for earlier groups

These guests are encouraged to board earlier than the rest of the economy cabin, offering reasonable access to bin space and extra time to get comfortable.

Group D – General Main Cabin

Group D comprises the remaining Main Cabin passengers. These passengers are assigned seats towards the middle or rear of the aircraft. This group includes those who didn’t purchase premium services or qualify for elite tiers.

Group E – Saver Fare Tickets

Saver Fare ticket holders make up Group E, the final boarding group. These ultra-low-cost fares come with restrictions, including:

• Last to board

• Limited access to overhead bin space

• Seats assigned at check-in with no seat changes allowed

Travelers opting for this fare should prepare to board with minimal carry-on baggage or consider early arrival at the gate.

Special Boarding Considerations

Traveling with Children

Families with children under two automatically qualify for pre-boarding. If you are traveling with toddlers or need extra time, simply notify the gate agent.

Wheelchair and Special Assistance

Alaska Airlines offers special assistance boarding for travelers who use mobility devices or require additional time. These guests receive priority boarding through the Pre-Boarding process.

Military Boarding

Active-duty U.S. military personnel (with valid ID) are also eligible for pre-boarding privileges, allowing them early access and appreciation for their service.

How to Board Early on Alaska Airlines

If you're looking to board before the general crowd, here are some tips:

1. Purchase a Premium Class or First Class Ticket

Upgrading your seat guarantees early boarding and a better overall experience.

2. Join the Mileage Plan Loyalty Program

Enroll in Alaska's Mileage Plan® to start earning elite status. Even MVP members receive Group A boarding perks.

3. Apply for a Co-branded Alaska Airlines Credit Card

Cardholders of the Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card may enjoy early boarding benefits and a free checked bag.

4. Check-In Early Online or via the Mobile App

Checking in early won’t change your group, but it ensures better seat assignment and reduces gate delays.

What Is Alaska Airlines Saver Fare?

The Saver Fare is Alaska Airlines’ basic economy option. It's the most affordable ticket but comes with notable restrictions:

• Last group to board (Group E)

• No seat changes

• Limited refund options

• No upgrades allowed

It’s ideal for price-conscious travelers with minimal baggage who don’t mind being among the last to board.

Mileage Plan Elite Boarding Benefits

Elite Tier	Boarding Group	Additional Perks
MVP Gold 100K	Group A	First Class upgrades, 100% bonus miles
MVP Gold 75K	Group A	Upgrades, 125% bonus miles, Oneworld Emerald status
MVP Gold	Group A	Premium and First Class upgrades
MVP	Group A	Early boarding, bonus miles, priority customer service

Boarding Tips for a Smooth Experience

Arrive Early

Gate agents begin boarding 30–40 minutes before departure. Arriving early ensures you’re ready when your group is called.

Listen for Announcements

Boarding groups are announced via overhead speakers and mobile push notifications (if enabled). Stay attentive to avoid delays.

Organize Your Carry-On

Ensure your items are TSA-compliant and your carry-on fits the 22" x 14" x 9" size limit. Overhead space is limited, especially for Group D and E passengers.

Alaska Airlines Boarding Order Summary

Here’s a quick look at the full boarding sequence:

Pre-Boarding – Assistance, families, military

Group A – First Class, Mileage Plan Elites

Group B – Premium Class passengers

Group C – Forward Main Cabin

Group D – General Main Cabin

Group E – Saver Fare

Conclusion

Alaska Airlines’ structured boarding process prioritizes efficiency, comfort, and elite status rewards. Whether you're traveling in First Class or on a Saver Fare, knowing where you fall in the boarding groups can help you plan accordingly. For the most seamless experience, consider investing in Premium or First Class tickets or enrolling in Alaska’s Mileage Plan® loyalty program to unlock elite perks.