Originally Posted by
ursine1
It's been mentioned in several threads here that it's possible to check in late and receive a "recycled" low-number boarding position, but I can't recall anyone ever before reporting receiving a recycled BS boarding position (A-15 or less).
This makes sense somewhat; I can understand re-allocating low A positions, since that would make it easier for the GA to (try to, at least) enforce boarding order without lots of gaps, I suppose. But BS positions should only ever be allocated to BS customers; and as reported here, that's not even the case in some last-minute situations.
Ideally, WN shouldn't recycle any positions *except* BS -- instead of re-opening a low A spot after a cancellation, the system should simply add an additional spot to the C group. This would mean there could possibly be C numbers higher than C23, but I think that's better than putting random people ahead of those who purchased EBCI. I suspect WN's system's aren't sophisticated enough for this, or the programmers simply didn't plan for such situations.
I may not have been clear, but I did buy Business Select on the last minute change, which may explain the recycle. If A-1 and canceled, and I got his BS slot for a sold out BS, they had to issue A-1 to me. They could not issue A-15a. Like I said, the BS line was packed. I may have gotten the only BS slot.
Interesting side note: As a COS I preboard, so the A-1 position is kind of funny. I have to preboard to clear their boarding screen properly as XS seats must be cleared before general boarding or the FA has to hold an XS for a connection or late arrival. If it were not for this, I could "swap" my BS or A+ boarding position with a high C or B. Oh, I would not sell it, but tips are appreciated.