Try boarding an AZ flight at MXP- The "zone" consists of an announcement that they will soon be boarding. They sometimes let families with children, people with special needs, etc. first. Then they have one big zone- a free-for-all with everybody in one clump pushing towards the gate.

Where did I just read an article about tweaking the zone system, so window seats board first, then middle and then aisle, instead of strict back to front? The basic zone concept is good, but far from perfect. Sounds like the OP got wierd luck- so many elites on an MD-88. When I need the overhead space I certainly don't hesitate to be a gate louse.

Twon-Dexter welcom to FT, now that you've broken the lurk, hope you post more.