This is an important issue.

I work out of ORF and frequently have the opportunity to take JetBlue, AA, US Airways, SWA pilots and others to our destinations. I am always thankful when I can repay them for their generosity and I know that ORF is an especially difficult commute.

When I know the flight will be full and even if it's not I try to go to the gate, especially in some places where the gate agents might think the flight is limited (we're almost never limited), and tell the gate agent we're bringing all jumpseaters and non-revs with.

I immensely appreciate all the great service I've had on the countless airlines I've ridden on over the past 6 years since I've worked in the US.

I have been left behind in ORF by gate agents of Delta Global Services who have done exactly what was described in the original post - said the jumpseat was unavailable, I was too late (the airplane was not due out for 10 more minutes and didn't actually leave for 20!!!! and I was left behind!!!), etc.

I say this only to point out that the NWA/Delta gate agents in ORF are not all helpful, not to pick a nit with the pilots of Delta or NWA, who have without exception been extremely accommodating. Go check for jumpseaters if you go through ORF. It's the toughest commuting airport I've ever been in.