Originally Posted by
awayIgo
Another issue not raised.It is my understanding that bags and person are supposed, for security, to be on the same flight. Only time not required is when passenger is involuntarily separated (like me with one piece of luggage left in NY, rather than placed on the plane). In the case of missing the deadline for checking bags - that would be an excellent way to send your bag unaccomplished!
Right after 911 that was the case for all flights, domestic and international. Since the introduction of inline x-ray screening on domestic baggage belt systems it is not required for domestic flights, as 100% of checked baggage is screened and cleared prior to loading (Oversized items that can't fit in the inline x-ray system, get ETD'd). So AS, like all domestic carriers will depart if a customer no-shows onboard even with their baggage loaded. It still is a thing, I don't know if a requirement, for international flights. I say "thing", because two of my BA flights this year held at the gate to remove bags for no-shows on board, but I have no idea if its required.