chevvron
... could have been interpreted as being a 'bribe' to get preferential treatment for whichever airline we travelled on.
Pal of mine who works a tower in the UK says that the only priority is if one of their colleagues is on board waiting for a departure. They try to make sure their holidays get off to a good start! They later report that the flight deck said: "Well, ladies and gentlemen, I'm glad to say that our slot has been brought forward. Cabin Crew please take your seats."
[allegedly]