Experimental test of airplane boarding methods

TL;DR

This study experimentally compares various airplane boarding methods in a mock fuselage, demonstrating that optimized methods significantly reduce boarding times and could save airlines money.

Contribution

It provides empirical evidence on the efficiency of different boarding strategies using a realistic mock-up and a diverse passenger group.

Findings

Optimized boarding methods significantly reduce boarding times.

Traditional methods are less efficient than the tested optimized strategies.

Potential for substantial cost savings for airlines.

Abstract

We report the results of an experimental comparison of different airplane boarding methods. This test was conducted in a mock 757 fuselage, located on a Southern California soundstage, with 12 rows of six seats and a single aisle. Five methods were tested using 72 passengers of various ages. We found a significant reduction in the boarding times of optimized methods over traditional methods. These improved methods, if properly implemented, could result in a significant savings to airline companies.