Reverse Boarding Experience
 

Coming back through ATL yesterday, departure was delayed due to late arrival of FA's. Gate agent took innovative approach to "speed" boarding of our 757 by loading from rear forward and FC last. Alas, it didn't seem to work too well as late boarders and standbys were still getting on 15 mintes after scheduled departure time. Give agent an A for trying but some FC did not seem too happy as they were worried about storage space. By the way, the second door was not used for boarding or debarking. Problem?? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/confused.gif

Swissair does this all the time, it seems to work.

Sadly, I've seen this happen in ATL a couple of times. This topic has been here before, but I will again add my concern as an upfront traveler, I like the preboard privlidges, the ability to settle into a seat, the ability to find room for my one carryon (smaller than most!) and maybe to enjoy a beverage. Those are the benefits of first class.

Now, I am concerned that this "change" is occuring without any published information about the "new" process. We are all creatures of habit and have been indoctrinated into a certain way of boarding the plane. When it changes for no reason, it does not suprize me if people get upset.

Personally, all I want is to ensure that the overhead bin space is available. When boarding coach first and first last, it can really cramp the space available for the "best" customers. Given what some people are hauling on board these days, combined with the incredulous load factors and diminishing space (more seats), it does not make sence to board your best travelers last and hope there is space left for them.

My thoughts http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

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DL PM MM
Comment from one Passenger to another: "Isn't it interesting to note that parts of this plane were built by the lowest bid contractor?"

I am curious. If FC was boarded last, what did they do with Medallion-level flyers? Did they still board early under this scenario?

Boarding was by row for this Delta system. FC was last because it is in the front (low seat number). The system has nothing to do with status. If you fill the back of the plane first AND enforce the program, as well as, enforce the carryon regulations (the main failure of any loading program) it works. May not like it, but it works. Loading window seats first seem to enhance this process. Window back, aisle and middle back etc.

Interesting. I rarely see Delta enforce the carry-on limit, unless it's a full flight and tempers are a bit frayed. Unfortunately, it's usually after the fact and the early boarders have already toted aboard their refrigerator-freezers, Pullman trunks and life-size mannequins.

Someday, someone will figure out how to connect the jetway to the rear entrance/exit. That way FC could board first and not block anyone else. It seems so obvious - what am I missing?

As was discussed before, the SR system works well if the lounge for First and Biz. is nearby. However, on domestic DL flights, First passengers would be waiting in the gate area.

My feelings are the same as those of DL Platinum.

As a First Class/PM customer of Delta, one of the things I like most is the ability to preboard and ensure the space for carry-on items. I never travel onboard heavy. If I'm traveling for more than two or three nights where I need a bigger bag that my small overnight rollaboard and briefcase, I have no problem checking it. But if I am forced to be one of the last to board, I can virtually guarantee that there will be no room!

Recently I flew ATL-BOS for a daytrip. I was in the CRC transferring some files and the process took longer than expected, and I rushed aboard as they began to call standbys (10 minutes before departure). I was among the last to board and there was no room in the overheads for my small briefcase. Since I was unfortunately in a bulkhead, I couldn't stow it under my seat. Luckily, the FA was able to stow it in the closet, but I could have easily been forced to check my one and only bag!

Imagine if this happened every flight. In this example, it was completely my fault, but if I was forced to board last, I would be pretty annoyed, considering the price tag for that seat!

IMO...

BB