The TSA restrictions on carry-on luggage caused me to quit checking my main bag even though I use a bag that is designed for the typical domestic overhead bin.

The TSA restrictions on carry-on luggage caused me to quit checking my main bag even though I use a bag that is designed for the typical domestic overhead bin. Relevant to what seems to be your local optimization, if you are trying to get your bag checked for free, you are combining all the possible inconveniences: carry the bag to the gate, have its contents qualify as carry-on contents, and wait for it at the carousel when you land. It does seem like a better idea to waive the fee at times, in order to streamline operations. But I pay the fee 24 hours in advance (when online checkin opens). How would they implement a waiver fairly?