Ah, the mystery about boarding groups.
Frankly, I miss the "old school" days when you would board an aircraft by rows, starting from the back of the aircraft and work your way forward. Simple and efficient.
Today, depending on the carrier you choose, you may have up to seven (7) boarding groups that have some level of science, marketing and revenue opportunity involved. Even Southwest, notorious for first come first serve strategy does monetize the boarding process.
But, don't get so riled up, you are not being picked on. Recently, a passenger was absolutely insistent that they do not deserve to be in Group 5, "do you know who I am!" The funny part is that in his infinite wisdom he chose Group 5. Why? He likes aisle seats.
Allowing for carrier differences, how many operate are as follows.
Pre-Boarding, Active Duty Military
First Class, Invitation Loyalty Program Members
1. Top Tier Loyalty Program Members
2. Lower Tier Loyalty Program Members, Co-Branded Credit Card Holder
3. Window Seats
4. Middle Seats
5. Aisle Seats
So, if you want earlier boarding without Elite or Preferred Status, without enrolling in the co-branded credit card programs and without purchasing select seating or access passes . . . choose a window seat. Tada, Boarding Group 3.
The process does change from carrier to carrier; but, to efficiently load even increasing passenger loads, a window seat will generally get you a head start to stow your carry-on baggage.
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