Originally Posted by FullThrust

That being said, if you get a seat in the cabin on an AA / Eagle flight there is no need to check-in with the captain because you are using your employee benefits and are no different than Jane in accounts payable who is going to El Paso to visit her slam piece for the weekend.

If you get a seat in the cabin on ANY OTHER AIRLINE (unless using a ZED), then you need to check-in with the captain.