Based on some recent experiences, the CK treatment is primarily at hubs and focus cities, but occasionally at high value cities like SFO. You’re far less likely to receive it during peak hours.

A couple of weeks ago on a Wednesday, I walked into the lounge and the agent that checked me in said “you’re my guy.” After a look of confusion she explained that she would be escorting me to my flight, and she was covering the desk during a break. Later I learned that I was one of only 4 people she needed to greet in Phoenix that day.

If you have a day of departure mobile number on file, the more resourceful agents will text you to let you know they are looking for you. This happened at LAX on saturday.

There seems to be some pushback on boarding CK people too early as this would be in violation of the cabin crew contract. It was to the point that we walked extra slow down the jet bridge.

Very tight or missed connections are where this service remains most useful.

The service has led to many conversations with passengers onboard asking what that was about, why I boarded first, who am I, etc.

Overall the experience feels less forced than in the earlier days. Most of the agents now expect that I’ll have been waiting in the lounge. On a tight connection in LA, the agent had brought me a bottle of still water since I didn’t get a chance to pop into the lounge.