you can book seats in advance, doesnt have to be at the counter, it has to be through their hotline most likely or a travel agent, theres no online seat selection. as for the lines, yes people cant wait so just go ahead of everyone since you paid for the business class ticket. honestly trying to first on a plane doesnt make any sense for me anymore since its not first come first serve and noone is going to take your seat. I like to wait until everyone is on the plane and theyre about to close the gate.