How aircraft design and airport logistics influence the left-side boarding standard
Siddhartha Jana
Boarding from the left side of an aircraft is a tradition rooted in maritime practices, where ships were designed for passengers to embark from the left, or 'port,' side.
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This tradition carried over to aviation when air travel developed, leading to the standard practice of left-side boarding in planes.
Source: Canva
Aircraft design and airport logistics are influenced by this practice, with jetbridges designed for left-side boarding and the right side reserved for catering and other services.
Source: Canva
Uniformity in boarding procedures helps reduce confusion and delays, streamlining operations and passenger flow at airports.
Source: Canva
Some airlines have experimented with boarding from both sides using alternative methods, like a three-door system, to expedite boarding and disembarking.
Source: Canva
These alternative methods are not widespread due to the need for specific conditions, such as ladders, and compatibility with standard airport infrastructure like jetbridges.
Source: Canva
There are no safety or regulatory restrictions against boarding from the right side, but the current system is optimized for efficiency and passenger convenience.
Source: Canva
Boarding from the right side could introduce operational challenges, such as navigating around catering carts or maintenance crews, potentially causing congestion and delays.
Source: Canva
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