With regard to ii), GS/1K can use the red carpet lane at any time. I have arrived late from a connecting flight many times, regular queue had a very long line, walked up to the red carpet lane, the agent will stop the regular queue and take you. Many people grumble but it's a benefit that's earned and if you choose to exercise that privilege than that's your right. I agree that if you're 1P, 2P and *G you are out of luck and stuck in the back, which is unfortunate.