Continental's policy is superb, both in theory and in practice!!! They really seem to adhere to it, at least they have with me on numerous occasions. It is so much more convenient to pre-board with the elites knowing that if I am entitled to a seat up front, it will be protected. America West seems to follow the same fine policy, also.

I have never noticed that their policy slows down the push at the gate. I actually feel it can expedite it. When persons hover around the gate area waiting for possible upgrades that don't materalize, then board in coach at the last possible moment, usually with carry-ons and no bin space available, they seem to slow down departures!

By the way, Monday evening at a gate in Newark I observed a CO agent informing a passenger (a CO pilot) that no first was available for the EWR-LAX flight and offering him a choice of jump, several center seats or one window seat toward the rear of the 757. He chose the window seat. A few minutes later the same agent paged another passenger (a wait listed for upgrade, Platinum elite) and informed him that he had a seat up front. Now that's integrity!!!

[This message has been edited by MRLIMO (edited 10-28-1999).]