Business Class Boarding. While business class passengers are among the first to board the aircraft, they still generally queue up in the terminal. First class passengers are typically escorted to the departure gate, often by a cart through the terminal, or by luxury sedan to planeside at some airports.

Business class passengers typically board very early in the process, but they are usually not the very first people on the plane. The standard "hierarchy" of boarding usually begins with Pre-boarding (for people with disabilities, families with small children, or active-duty military). Following that, airlines often board their highest-tier elite frequent flyers and First Class passengers. Business Class is usually in the next group, often referred to as "Group 1" or "Priority Boarding." On many international long-haul flights using wide-body aircraft, Business Class has its own dedicated boarding lane or even a separate jet bridge to ensure a seamless and fast entry. This priority access allows Business Class travelers to settle in, store their carry-on luggage in the ample overhead bins, and enjoy a "pre-departure beverage" (often champagne or juice) while the rest of the plane is still boarding. While they don't always step onto the floor first, they are almost always seated and relaxed long before the main economy cabin begins their boarding process.