Qantas makes major change to boarding process: Here's what it means for you

Qantas is aiming to make boarding planes faster and more efficient by changing its method of getting passengers onto flights.

The national carrier previously used a class-based system that allowed premium cabins and high-status frequent flyers to board first, followed by everyone else.

The new system divides passengers into six groups based on their seat position in the aircraft, frequent flyer status and class cabin.

Once your group number is called, you will be able to board. Signs and announcements will help clarify which of the six groups is boarding at what times.

Anyone attempting to bypass the queue will be stopped at the gate. The boarding pass scanner will only permit passengers to proceed once their assigned group number is announced.

Qantas said recent trials of the system across the country have shortened queues at the gate and allowed passengers to be seated faster.

Qantas Domestic chief executive Markus Svensson said staggering economy boarding according to seating zones would make more planes leave on time. 

'We're continuing to look for ways to respond to pain points and improve the travel experience for our customers,' Mr Svensson said.

'We know how important on-time departure is to our customers, so this process is also about doing everything possible to ensure we depart on time.'

Qantas' new system comes into effect at Brisbane today, Perth on June 10, Melbourne from June 17 and Sydney on June 25.