American Airlines said it is allowing passengers "with one personal carry-on item that fits under the seat in front of them" to board before Group 2 coach-class boarding.
AA expects the new boarding process, effective systemwide, will "save overall boarding time" and speed departures.
While AA generally charges for a first checked bag, "with the new boarding process, customers who wish to board early before Group 2 can gate-check their carry-on bag at no charge," according to the carrier.
Source: Business Travel News