OK, here's a question I've been meaning to ask for a long time.

What exactly is "concierge service"? I see checkered-coat folks schmoozing passengers onboard sometimes, and I often wonder whether, were I that passenger, I wouldn't just want the concierge to buzz off and let me enjoy pre-departure.

I suppose one aspect of it is to have a dedicated CSR available in case there are travel difficulties and rebooking is necessary-- but I know a number of the agents who serve as concierges at domestic gateways, and they're not the most experienced nor computer savvy. And, don't even get me started with the folks at LHR...

So, what exactly is "concierge service"?