American Airlines just expanded its new boarding process technology — which sounds an alarm if someone tries to board a flight before their group is called — to more airports. Why it matters: Richmond is not one of the more than 100 U.

American Airlines has announced it is expanding its new technology to control “gate lice” – keen passengers with an itch to line up at the gate before they are called to board a flight.

You never know who you will see at the airport these days. University of Virginia travel experts offer tips on how to handle “gate lice” and passengers who play “check-in chicken.” (Illustration by John DiJulio, University Communications assisted by AI)

The airline is expanding technology that will find people trying to sneak aboard airplanes before their group, so gate attendants can discreetly invite them to take their places in line.

Gate Lice technology is achieving great success across the US following promising recent trials and will now reach more than 100 more US airports.

FORT WORTH, Texas - American Airlines is expanding a new technology that aims to cut down on what’s been referred to online as "gate lice," or when passengers attempt to cut the line during the boarding process.

American Airlines is expanding a trial of a new technology to more than 100 airports after gaining "early insights on ways to improve the boarding process."

American Airlines has rolled out boarding technology that alerts gate agents with an audible sound if a passenger tries to scan a ticket ahead of their assigned group.