my understanding is that the computer does not permit a user (regardless of a pax using kiosks/OLCI or staff to check in) within the last 1 hour.
but taking one step back......... why is the airline being blamed for being inflexible etc etc, while the ticket holder cannot follow the rules outlined in the ticket to begin with?
this discussion has happened time to time, regardless of circumstances or carrier, if the airline makes an exception for you......... how many others do they have to make exceptions to?
unfortunately, i dont have much sympathy in such circumstances.....