Science of Success: A Better Way to Board a Plane

WSJ’s The Future of Everything

Aug 23 2024 • 10 mins

It seems like every airline has a different way of boarding a plane. But which way works best? Astrophysicist Jason Steffen has spent his career trying to crack the deepest mysteries of the universe, and 15 years ago he discovered and published what he says is the optimal boarding strategy. So why aren’t all commercial airlines using it? On the Science of Success, WSJ’s Ben Cohen looks at what goes into planning the most efficient boarding process and what airlines are doing to help customers have a smooth entry to their flights.  What do you think about the show? Let us know on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or email us: FOEPodcast@wsj.com  Sign up for the WSJ's free The Future of Everything newsletter. Further reading: The Astrophysicist Who Has a Better Way to Board Airplanes  Southwest Airlines Is Ditching Open Seating on Flights  Southwest Fans Wonder if the Airline Has Changed Forever  It Can’t Be This Hard to Board a Plane  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices