Zone Boarding With Air France: How Does it Work?

For a number of years now, Air France has been boarding its flights by zone to facilitate departure. As a result, queues are generally shorter and gate congestion is less chaotic. But although the numbering system is fairly straightforward, the rules surrounding it can sometimes confusing. Which passengers benefit from priority boarding in zones 1 and 2? And who’s in zone 5? Milesopedia helps to sort it all out.

Boarding with Air France is based on the allocation of a zone number according to the passenger’s cabin and Flying Blue status. This zone number is clearly printed on the boarding pass. As boarding approaches, ground crews direct passengers sequentially through numbered zones, from zone 1 to zone 5.

It is important to note that boarding is only authorized when the corresponding zone number are announced, not before. Signs indicating the zones are visible in front of the flight’s boarding gate, providing clear cues. This method ensures a smooth, orderly boarding process, allowing each passenger to board at a time that suits them, while promoting efficient organization of the entire process.

You’ll find your zone number on your boarding pass, whether you obtained it at the airport, on the Air France website or via the airline’s app.

Zones 1 and 2 are called first, followed by zones 3, 4 and 5.

Flying Blue members with Gold or Platinum status traveling with SkyPriority are generally in zone 1.

Flying Blue members with Gold or Platinum status traveling in Economy or Premium Economy retain their SkyPriority benefits, with boarding in zone 2.

Flying Blue members with Silver status are usually called zone 3.

Passengers traveling in the Economy cabin who have no Flying Blue status are the last to board the aircraft, which is why they are generally classified in zones 4 and 5.

When you travel with Air France, you have the option of checking in at the airport on the day of your flight, right up to check-in closing time. This allows you to choose your seat and acquire your boarding pass.

The French airline has self-service kiosks available at all times in many airports. These not only allow you to check-in in a few simple steps, but also to print out your suitcase label if you’re traveling with checked luggage. You can also use them to make changes to your reservation or to purchase additional options for your ticket. It’s a fast, efficient way to customize your trip to suit your needs.

In the event of problems, Air France agents are available to answer passengers’ questions.

Boarding by zone with Air France helps avoid congestion when passengers start boarding. Priority boarding passengers, i.e. those traveling with the SkyPriority program, are generally the first to board the aircraft, in zones 1 and 2 groups. Depending on status, cabin and additional services, other passengers are invited to board in zones 3, 4 and 5.