Gate lice is a pejorative term used to describe a phenomenon observed among air travelers, where passengers gather in front of boarding gates before their designated boarding time.[1][2][3] The term has gained recognition within the community of frequent flyers, particularly on platforms such as Flyertalk.[1] This phenomenon may make the boarding process more cumbersome.[2][4] For instance, it can lead to congestion, longer wait times for those who have prioritized boarding, and confusion.[4] To avoid behaving in this manner, it is recommended to stay in one's seat until one's boarding zone is called.[5]
Contributing factors edit
The rationale for gate lice behavior may be due to various contributing factors.[1] Some attribute it to the inexperience of certain travelers who may not fully comprehend airline boarding procedures.[1] Additionally, the presence of elite fliers with priority boarding privileges board early, forming clusters in front of the gate and contributing to congestion.[1][2] Airport gate designs can also play a role, for example at O'Hare International Airport gate layouts are conducive for congestion.[1] Also the baggage fees may also play a role, as some passengers may seek to board early to secure overhead bin space to potentially avoid fees.[1] Also, people may seek the overhead bin space to avoid lost luggage.[6] In some cases, people may seek overhead bin space to store items required on the flight.[7]
Psychological factors may also play a role.[2] When people see other people crowding the boarding area, there may be a social tendency to move towards conformity.[2][4][8] Also, the overhead bin space may be viewed as a limited resource leading to competition.[2][4] The underlying uncertainty and competition may lead to anxiety and hostility.[4] Waiting in line may also help bring a sense of control as well as relieve anxiety.[8]
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the phenomenon has increased possibly as travelers have become more anxious.[6]
Industry Response edit
Some airlines have implemented measures to address the challenges posed by gate lice.[1][9] This includes the creation of dedicated lanes for elite fliers and the removal of special pre-boarding privileges for families with small children.[1] Various airlines, such as United, Continental, Delta, Northwest, and Southwest, have introduced priority boarding programs catering to specific customer groups.[1]
References edit
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j Phillips, Matt (2008-10-20). "Barbarians at the Gate?: Elite Fliers Bemoan "Gate Lice"". The Wall Street Journal.
- ^ a b c d e f Bink, Addy (2024-02-04). "'Gate lice': Who are they, and how can you avoid being one". WFLA. Retrieved 2024-02-06.
- ^ Muther, Christopher (2019-03-14). "Avoid gate lice and wear your headphones: The dos and don'ts of airport etiquette". BostonGlobe.com. Retrieved 2024-02-06.
- ^ a b c d e Andrade, Sofia (2023-12-13). "Why do 'gate lice' line up early for a flight? Psychologists explain". Washington Post. Retrieved 2024-02-06.
- ^ "Don't be 'gate lice' lurking near airport boarding zones (and other flying etiquette tips to help you be a model jet-setter this summer)". Toronto Star. 2024-02-01. Retrieved 2024-02-06.
- ^ a b Towey, Hannah (2023-06-15). "and why you don't want to be called 'gate lice' at the airport". Business Insider. Retrieved 2024-02-06.
- ^ Yasa, Dilvin (2023-12-22). "Gate lice? That's a title I'm happy to wear". escape. Retrieved 2024-02-06.
- ^ a b Glover, Ella (2023-12-15). "Airline workers have a name for people who queue up early to board the plane". Metro. Retrieved 2024-02-06.
- ^ Koenig, David (2013-08-03). "Getting rid of 'gate lice' in airline boarding". The Seattle Times. Retrieved 2024-02-06.