United Airlines Starts New Boarding Process

(Scypre.com) – United Airlines is introducing a novel approach to streamline the boarding process, prioritizing economy passengers seated by the window. The newly unveiled boarding system, named WILMA (windows, middle, aisle), is being implemented just before the upcoming holiday travel season, with the goal of expediting boarding procedures.

United anticipates a reduction of two minutes in the boarding time, ultimately contributing to on-time departures and allowing for the addition of a daily flight to their schedule.

Despite the airline’s efforts to enhance efficiency, some passengers are expressing reservations about the revised plans. Sherry Brazil, a traveler passing through Newark Liberty International Airport, voiced concerns, stating, “It’s an inconvenience for people that might be paying more and still have to wait longer to board to seat window passengers first.” Leona Marlene, a TikTok user specializing in travel tips, shared a similar sentiment, saying, “As a window person, I don’t really think it’s that big of a deal, but I could see aisle people being a little bit bothered by this.”

At Newark Airport, passengers argued that the higher prices for certain seats are justified by the access to overhead space, which is more assured when boarding in the initial groups. United responded to this concern, noting ongoing efforts to retrofit aircraft with larger overhead bins capable of accommodating each passenger’s carry-on suitcase.

However, this upgrade is not expected to be completed until 2026. In the interim, passengers unable to secure overhead space will have to check their carry-on to the final destination.

While some travelers criticize the new boarding strategy, others express support. A TikTok user, Gina M., praised the idea as “genius,” citing her frequent travels and frustration with waiting for aisle passengers. Neko Swift, who identifies as an “aisle person,” welcomed the change, stating, “Why sit in a cramped plane when I can board right before we leave?”

This is not the first instance of United utilizing the WILMA process; it was initially tested at five airports in 2017 alongside the introduction of Basic Economy, a ticket category with carry-on restrictions. While other airlines have experimented with similar systems, many reverted to granting priority boarding to first and business class passengers.

United emphasizes that early boarding remains available for individuals with disabilities, unaccompanied minors, and active military members, along with priority boarding for first or business class passengers, status flyers, and those with credit card benefits. Despite differing opinions among passengers, some, like Robert, are open to the change, stating, “Anything that makes the process go faster is fine with me; I’m willing to give it a try.”