Well Said....
I agree with the OP, and hate the thought of LUT fares not getting upgraded. I have a small biz and fly numerous times a year, but generally on the lower fares, to the advantage of my work. As a PM, I feel like I am just as valuable to DL as a K flyer who travels less than I do, and if it comes to having to find a cheaper fare versus the chance for an upgrade, I will go somewhere else as well. I'll stay loyal as best I can, but any airline can get me to my destination, and if I save a couple thousand a year to take my loyalty elsewhere, I'll unfortunately have to do so, especially in this economic climate.