I’m considering my first B6 flight in several years and still struggling to understand the practicalities of the Blue Basic fare. So a few questions:

1) I have AA Gold status which includes a free checked bag, presumably regardless of fare type. Do I have to check the bag before security (and wait in line) or can I do it at the gate?

2) If I have a Blue Basic fare and purchase an EMS seat assignment, will I be able to (a) board with regular EMS pax and (b) take a carry on at that point?

Assuming the EMS price is the same for Blue and Blue Basic fares, seems like #2 creates a bit of a loophole to save $ by buying Blue Extra, you just give up the ticket flexibility, right?

Thank you!