Legally yes. But, this ride doesn’t sound like a free one for the OP. Sounds like he was on his way to work (or even home). How much money does the FAA attendance bring to the airline? How about the pilot who actually works for an airline? If the OP was going on vacation that’s one thing. But to or from work? Come on.

My point: the pilots work to make a living and are utilized by the air line to make money. The FAA works for you and me (assuming you pay taxes). So ya it is kinda crappy when you loose the JS to someone who is not bringing revenue to your corner of the world.

Yes the line observation is an important thing, but I can absolutely see how the OP would be upset.

Just my .02