Sounds like he didn't make it to the gate within 45 mins and lost his seat, but claims he was held up at security. I didn't take it to be the airline's fault. Sadly, not a lot of spare seats around this time of year. Maybe he should have been at the airport 2-3 hours ahead. When I flew Thanksgiving week I made sure to show up 2 hours early, and that was even with status, just to be safe. I knew my flight was full.