What does the contract state between LH and VC regarding boarding of DH pilots?
Our contract is quite clear, deadheading pilots in uniform may board the aircraft at any time once the required compliment of flight attendants are on the aircraft. One of the reasons for that is to ensure there is enough overhead space for the pilots belongings and required flight equipment.
Of course we could board last, not have space for out gear, gate check it, pick it up at baggage claim at the destination and delay the follow on flight by :45 to an hour, but that most likely would leave a bad impression with the full fare passengers (and the 140+ other passengers) on that flight...