The great airline scam of 2009

In terms of actually checking bags, I'm not sure whether the old way or the new way is better. It sometimes seems like the few staff members are pretty spread thin when it comes to actually taking bags.

On the other hand, I normally travel with only carry on bags. There's often little to no line at the "no baggage" check ins, which makes it a much faster choice for getting through the airport.

Can anyone else confirm/deny these observations?

I almost invariably travel hand-luggage only, but I frequently find that I can't check-in online because I have an "unusual passport."

Really annoying, especially when some airlines then charge for not having checked in online.