Priority boarding (also called priority access or preferred access) is a service that some airlines offer to passengers, granting them the right to get on the plane before the general boarding groups.

In the aviation industry of 2026, early boarding is most commonly referred to as Pre-boarding or Priority Boarding, depending on the specific group being called. Pre-boarding is strictly reserved for passengers who require extra time or assistance, such as those with disabilities, families with small children (usually under age two), and unaccompanied minors. This happens before any other group is allowed on the jet bridge. Priority Boarding, on the other hand, is a perk granted to "elite" frequent flyers, those seated in First or Business Class, and often those who hold co-branded airline credit cards. Airlines like United and Delta use "Zones" or "Groups" (e.g., Group 1, Group A) to manage this flow. Some low-cost carriers also sell "EarlyBird Check-In" or "Speedy Boarding" as a standalone ancillary fee. Being part of an early boarding group is highly coveted in 2026 because it guarantees space in the overhead bins for carry-on luggage, which has become increasingly scarce as airlines continue to raise checked-bag fees across the board.