Alaska Airlines has a straightforward boarding process. If you have an upcoming flight, knowing the Alaska boarding groups in advance can help to make your flying experience less stressful.

Find out more about the airline's boarding process, so you're prepared for your trip and know when it's time to get on the plane.

The Alaska Airlines boarding groups

How many boarding groups does Alaska have? Alaska Airlines has six boarding groups, making their boarding process relatively simple. These six groups will be able to get on the plane following those eligible for preboarding.

First-class ticketed passengers.

Group A.

Group B.

Group C.

Group D.

Group E.

Travelers who can preboard include guests with disabilities or who need extra time to board, families with children under 2, and active-duty military members.

After preboarding is complete, first-class ticketed passengers are the first boarding group. Then the process continues, in alphabetical order, beginning with Group A and ending with Group E.

How Alaska's boarding groups are assigned

Your ticket type and your Mileage Plan membership level will determine your assigned boarding group. If you have elite status, you may be able to board sooner, no matter where you're seated on the plane.

You'll see your group assignment on your boarding pass. Alaska has display screens at the gate to help travelers know when it's their turn to board. The groups with a green check board, while groups in red will board soon.

Here is a detailed looked at Alaska's boarding groups and the eligibility for each.

How to get Alaska Airlines priority boarding

There are a few ways to get priority boarding privileges, like purchasing a premium-class ticket or having elite status with the airline. But those aren't the only options. Here are several ways to get on the plane sooner:

Qualify for preboarding

Fliers who qualify for preboarding get on the plane before all other travelers, including first-class passengers. So, if you are eligible, you can get settled in your seat before the regular boarding process begins.

Fly in a premium cabin

When purchasing a first- or premium-class ticket, you'll get priority boarding privileges, getting to board the plane before travelers with main cabin or saver seat tickets.