Even worse than the gate lice are the airlines that don't appreciate their Elite flyers. When we used to fly ATA, we boarded as early as possible because my husband and I commuted together and normally took exit row 10DE. There was space in front for a carry-on, but some of the FAs were absolutely anal about not allowing a bag there, even if it fit all the way under the seat. Unfortunately, our commute is MDW/MCO, and they are much more used to leisure travelers. Half the time they never even bothered to call Elite boarding before asking for pre-boarding families. I got in the habit of lining up early, flouncing up when they called for families, putting on my brightest smile, and saying, "I'm sure you just forgot to announce the pre-board for your very best customers, right?" Eventually, the gate agents got to know us and never forgot to call Elite first when they saw us milling around. But sadly, ATA bailed, and how we're Southwest hoi polli.