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Comment by raisedbyninjas | Hacker News Reader

I don't see why anybody is anxious to board early unless they are jockeying for a bin for their carry-on or have a seat in a luxurious first or business class. First class already gets to board early, so I'm not sure what appeal this policy is supposed to have.

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> so I'm not sure what appeal this policy is supposed to have.

I've never flown Alaskan, but it's pretty obvious what the appeal is: it's a small optimization to make flying a little more convenient and enjoyable for some people. It seems like it would be nice not to have to wait in the boarding line and manhandle my carry-on. Plus, the policy creates some goodwill because they're passing up an opportunity to nickle-and-dime you.

I'd rather wait in the terminal than on the plane.

To each his own. They certainly give you that option.

I've never flown Alaskan either, but I regularly fly Alaska between the Bay Area and Portland.

Because once you are boarded and settled, you can start counting sheep.

Between everyone else fighting for overhead space and possibly having to get up for others in your row, that doesn't sound likely.

You wouldn't have to do that if you have a window seat, which you'd probably try to get if you'll fit in one and you want to sleep.

Alaskan Airlines doesn't have reserved seating, so first come first serve.

Unless they've changed in the last six months, they absolutely do have reserved seating.

Just flew them a week ago, it's assigned seating. You're probably thinking Southwest Airlines.

oops. You are correct. <:)

Southwest does have the software for assigned seating, they just don't have it enabled.

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