[texasredbud]

On several occasions I have missed the 45 minute AA pre-flight check in requirement. It does not matter that you can still make your flight, American Air cancels your reservation. I can not tell you how mad I get standing at the gate, on stand-by, wondering if I will be able to use the seat I purchased. The only reason I can see for a 45 minute deadline, is to encourage customers to pay for confirmed seats on the next plane.

AA's current model is to fill the planes at all cost. They do not care about their customers.

This policy has made Southwest my first choice in travel. Until recently I have not had many choices fllying from Dallas. But the recent changes to the Wright Amendment will allow me to pick Southwest more often.

I have learned of a way around this requirement. If you can login to the AA web site and pre print your boarding pass from home, you can arrive at the gate latter. THis works well for out boudn flights, but not always for return flights. It might also require membership in the AAdvantage Frequent Flyer Program.