[QUOTE=aztimm;31052329...

Generally if I'm #1 or maybe even 2 on the list, I'll ask the gate agent how things look (while trying to avoid the fray around boarding as much as I can). On Sunday I was #2 on the list, hadn't said anything (was prepared to just sit in my exit row), and about a minute before boarding began they called me to the desk for a new boarding pass. It worked out well since the seat was in row 1...and even getting in line somewhat early, some people in row 2 had already put things above my seat.[/QUOTE]

With the advent of the "Secret Society" AKA CK, I haven't seen #1 , 2, or 3 since Obama was president. Forget about clearing ahead of time.

Complain. Do it on Twitter, before they can cover their tracks.