As a long time A-List Preferred Business traveler, I agree that the pre-board abuses have become extremely blatant. I pay the highest fare available to sit in bulkhead or near the front of the plane to disembark as quickly as possible.
As a frequent A-1 boarder I do enjoy the companion travel and other benefits associated with frequent travel on SW. Candidly, in some of the markets I travel, I am opting for other airlines and pay slightly more for an upgrade to business or first class. The pre board abuses have been openly noticed and discussed with fellow A-list travelers as well as gate agents, many who have suggested that I register my complaints with SW.
I am sure that I speak for everyone in that people who truly qualify as disabled, should be allowed some form of early boarding.
Some suggestions as to an equitable policy:
Limit early boarding to seats starting at row 11
Change boarding to after A Group as you have done for Family Boarding
Implement a policy similar for public car parking in handicap stalls. It requires certification by a doctor of either permanent or temporary disablity obtain a pass.
I believe that the open seat policy works and I love traveling on SW. However it is frustrating to pay $400 plus for a Business Select ticket and have someone who paid $49 and is otherwise healthy to be able to receive priority boarding.
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