Originally Posted by
RetiredSFOATC
Basically when gatehold is in effect, the controllers in the tower create a *virtual* cue for departures so that the aircraft await their turn while still in the gate, hopefully better managing the cues of aircraft at the runway(s). So you might not be stuck in line on the taxiway, but you might instead be stuck sitting on the aircraft at the gate... I suppose that's more of a semantic difference, if the issue is being strapped into your seat and not going anywhere.
I think I experienced that last year. AS pushed back, then went back to the gate and opened the door during the wait. UA pushed back and sat. Either of those was better than being strapped to the seat. Pax were free to use their mobile devices and the lav. On UA (OO), the single FA did an outstanding job of passing out water, managing the cabin, and resolving an unexpected breastmilk emergency.