Originally Posted by
jrl767
if you're coming in on a mainline AS flight, you will at least be able to carry your carry-on luggage off the jet rather than having to wait for the planeside "Ala Cart" check that Horizon offers on their Q400s
This is key.
If you have to gate check on an RJ or prop, that can easily add 5-10 minutes before you can start walking to the next plane.
If that's the case, I would check the luggage through. By checking a bag, you transfer the liability of getting the bag to the final destination to the airline. If they mishandle it, they will have to deliver it to you at the final destination.