This could not be more true, especiallynow since the turn-around timeon flights are so close. It stems,I belive from the delays at check-in.

People are travelling in record numbers these days and still don't arrive on-time to check in (up to two hours fordomestic at some airports). This dramatically hinders the frequent traveller and the airlines ability to perform Elite services.

During the holidays is the most stressful time for travel. When I see that things are tense at the gate, I know my chances are 50-50 fro premium service.

Cheering up a gate agent, by engaging them is a brief complimentary coversation, has gone a long way for me in the past .