NEW YORK — If you’re someone who thinks cutting in line could speed up your boarding process with American Airlines, you might want to rethink that. The airline has introduced new boarding technology designed to discourage line cutting and streamline the boarding process at airports.

This new system alerts gate agents with a sound if a passenger attempts to board before their designated group has been called. The software prevents the scanning of boarding passes from passengers who arrive at the gate too early, ensuring they return to their designated area until it’s their turn to board. As of Wednesday, this technology has been implemented in over 100 airports across the United States where American Airlines operates. This rollout follows successful trials at several locations, including Albuquerque International Sunport, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, and Tucson International Airport.

The feedback from both travelers and American employees regarding this new technology has surpassed expectations. Julie Rath, senior vice president of airport operations and service recovery at American Airlines, expressed enthusiasm for having the system ready just in time for the busy Thanksgiving travel season. The initiative gained considerable attention when it was first announced, reflecting the widespread issue of line cutting that many travelers have experienced and found frustrating.

Airline industry analyst Henry Harteveldt noted that line cutting can create significant tension within airports, as passengers often feel anxious about seating arrangements and available overhead bin space. He emphasized that the goal of this new technology is not to shame those who attempt to cut in line, but rather to instill a sense of order. Harteveldt hopes it will minimize potential conflicts among passengers who may feel entitled to board early, highlighting that such actions can create unfair situations.

While some experts believe this development will be beneficial for both travelers and airline staff, others, like Seth Miller, who runs an air travel analysis website, remain cautiously optimistic. He sees the advantages of a more organized boarding process but is not entirely convinced that it will cater perfectly to all passenger needs. For instance, families traveling on separate reservations may find the new system challenging. However, American Airlines has stated that gate agents can make exceptions for those traveling with companions on earlier reservations.

There’s also the concern that passengers may feel embarrassed if they encounter a warning beep due to attempting to board early. Nevertheless, Harteveldt reassured that the alert sound is not overly loud, aiming to maintain some discretion and avoid causing embarrassment to travelers.

Implementing this technology just before the peak Thanksgiving travel period could have both positive and negative implications. On one side, it could significantly enhance the boarding experience during a high-traffic season; on the other side, airline staff may have preferred more preparation time for such changes.

Both Miller and Harteveldt indicated that it’s possible other airlines may soon adopt similar technologies, given the persistent headaches caused by line cutting in airports. Miller noted that he has seen instances of gate agents from other airlines managing lines effectively, while Harteveldt pointed out that some international airports have implemented systems that regulate group boarding.

American Airlines is utilizing this gate control technology in more than 100 non-hub airports, including notable locations like Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The airline plans to extend this system to their hub airports and additional locations in the near future.