Priority boarding refers to the ability to board a plane, ship, or train prior to other passengers. Different airlines, cruise lines, and rail companies have different rules regarding the times and order in which passengers can board. Generally, passengers with special needs may board immediately after priority passengers, such as first or business class passengers, loyalty rewards program members, or passengers who purchase suites on cruise ships or sleeper carts on trains.

The majority of airlines allow passengers who have special needs or passengers needing assistance, such as those traveling with small children, to board before those who do not. In some cases, these passengers must wait until after first and/or business class and rewards program members have boarded the aircraft. In recent years, airlines have ...