B747, I think that comment is a bit harsh. I think almost any traveler would try to argue out of having to check a slightly heavier bag than the airline's rules permit, without necessarily having the attitude that the rules don't apply to elite travelers. UAworldwide did say "it was agreed..." meaning that he agreed to the condition, but at the gate, no one from Emirates followed up on having to check the bag. His gain was due to lack of follow up by Emirates, not by something devious that he did.