Some areas require the above counter air gap. If yours does, you have no choice. Most, if not all, pros advise the air gap, required or not. If the air gap is not required and you want an alternative, you can put a high loop in the drain hose. This loop is attached to the underside of the counter top so that it is higher than the dishwasher. Care must be taken to be sure there is no possibility of a kink in the hose.