Originally Posted by
MSPeconomist
I have the impression that some nonelites are VERY aware that it's free to gate check a bag. They plan to take an oversize bag with them through TSA security, knowing that it won't fit in the overhead bin, because it's cheaper to do this than check the bag at the counter bag drop.
I have SEEN this very thing. The GA will charge them for it though. The one's I've seen are on to this. If you listen when they do say it is complientary, they qualify that it applies to bags that would fit in the size-wise contraption they have at the gates.