Seen quite a few instances where the last conversation with the Capt. before getting the release back results in late connecting revenue passengers, folks getting to work and non revs being allowed to board. Because of the nature of the trips I fly, quite a few of these events involve cities we serve irregularly and last flight of the day.

This policy might avoid a few 3 minute delays, but at the cost of a few more denied boardings and greater passenger accommodation costs. For the cities we serve just a couple of times, or once, per week it can cause people a huge problem. Sometimes the delays have to do with Passport verification and the little bit of flexibility helps. ... Most Captains don't mind taking a brief delay while keeping sight of the bigger picture for those whom we serve.

JMHO ... that final howgozit before the door shuts is important in a lot of ways.