All this is why I always avoid JFK. It is overscheduled, antiquated, and understaffed. All this is under Delta control. Moreover, the passenger was there 90 minutes early. At the very least Delta should have rescheduled him at no additional charge. Seems like 30 minutes (total 90 minutes) is entirely reasonable unless one is a frequent flyer to New York.

Although the JFK problems are longstanding, Delta has begun dropping the ball in Atlanta. The last 4 of 5 flights I have taken connecting in Atlanta have had to stand on the tarmac waiting for a gate despite on time arrival. Just last Tuesday evening, I had a 35 minute tarmac hold waiting for our gate. Ran to my gate arriving at 940 pm, for a scheduled 945 departure. Delta put me up and rebooked me so I am not too upset. I just hope the situation doesn't get any worse.