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Update on my situation-- I had to fly from a different airport and bought a revenue ticket. I had originally also booked a miles ticket for my friend using my miles and with an MP+ Explorer card, and made sure all segments were X.

I thought:

1) my friend should "inherit" my elite status
2) show up on the upgrade list
3) receive EUA at my upgrade window

Looks like for some things #1 is true, they were able to check bags and select a preferred seat for free.

BUT they are not on the upgrade list for either leg, even though the ticket is X, and probably should have received an EUA at the five day window.

Did I misunderstand how this works?

I used the MP+ Explorer card to pay taxes on the reward ticket-- but how does CO know I have the card and should receive the benefit? Can they tell from the number? Must I use the card to pay or just be a cardholder to receive benefits?

Also is there any use asking for upgrade at the airport? Reports seem a bit mixed on the airport issue.