Originally Posted by
FriendlySkies
Why would you have to tell the FA that you are A1?
Historically, A1 (or the first non-preboarder) is asked to hand their paper BP to the F/A as you board. This is their positive indication from the gate agent that all preboarders are on the plane (although often not yet seated).
The F/A will announce on the cabin PA "general boarding", an indication to the other F/As that passengers that follow aren't restricted from the exit row(s) (at least not for reason of being a preboarder).
Since I had no "paper" to hand her/him, I was asked to verbally announce my presence.