If I hear the 'sick call' I'll greet a fellow PPRuNer!
With a checked bag:-
- Take my time leaving the a/c. Often last off having a word with the folks who have been working.
- Stroll the corridors and pause on the travelators.
- If the carousel is still thronged, I always go to the extreme ends. At the emerging point you have to be fast but you save time. At the other end, you can see yours making it's way.
- Whilst waiting, I check the phone for messages, have a drink of water from the bottle in my handcase and chill. (Note: if at an Italian airport, take out a folding chair and read a book/sleep)
- If I have to elbow may way through? I do with Excuse Me's in whichever language I imagine is suitable!
The end of the belt that is furthest from the exit will always be emptier as you can
then make a fast getaway. I prefer the start of the belt, if it's empty.