American Airlines is reserving some seats in the first few rows of coach for flyers to purchase at airport kiosks only.
The airline is calling the product Express Seats and is pitching it as a benefit for passengers who want to get on and off the plane before the rest of coach. Those who buy an Express seat will board with Group 1 during general boarding.
An Express Seat upgrade costs $19 to $38, depending on flight distance. The option is available for all domestic travel and on flights to and from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
American said the new policy won’t reduce the number of front-cabin coach seats reserved for elite-level members of the airline’s loyalty program. American said it will set aside a number of these seats for elite-level flyers on every flight.
American is confident that it won't have any problems selling the upgrades at the airport.
"Based on our experience, people really value these seats," said airline spokesman Tim Smith.