I think the solution is a combination of several ideas put forth in this thread.

First I agree that there should be different lines for passengers on the flights leaving A) within the hour, B) one to two hours off, and C) more than two hours, each with at least one dedicated checkin agent (maybe two for the "A" line). And the solution for making sure that everyone gets in the correct line is to set up a "triage" agent to direct people into the correct line. That way anyone who arrives late to the airport MUST use the "A" line. If they miss their plane because they got there too late and there were 50 people in the line before them THAT IS THEIR OWN **** FAULT. The others who arrive earlier do not have to worry about people cutting in line.
This way someone like me who likes airports can be guaranteed that when I arrive 1 1/2 to 2 hours ahead of time, the "B" line may be almost empty. (Sort of an elite check in for those who play by the rules)
This gets back to the title of the Thread. This procedure would not reward the wrong behavior but reward those who get to the airport early enough to reasonably make their flight. It would require people to take responsibility for their own actions.

And if you feel that your time is worth more than the others already in line, Pay them for jumping line. More arrogance is not needed at the airport!!!
Just my thoughts


[This message has been edited by mapsmith (edited 03-23-2002).]