I like this “new” process for efficiency purposes. The group 1 passengers are generally experienced and efficiently seated.

I really never understood having families go ahead of group 1 particularly for routes that have a high family passenger heavy load. It’s not unusual for this group to take over 10 minutes before elites and FC are called and then have to wait in the bridgway.

With regards to active duty military, is it also to insure they have adequate overhead bin room if they are carrying some additional bags (above and beyond the appreciation). It’s not unusual for an active military person to be carrying a large side bag and thus good for them to be ahead of the masses.