Well here's my story.
On CO 90 today, LAX-EWR. F is booked full, and I'm #5 on the upgrade list. I'm Plat on a M fare.
Sitting in the P-Club at 35 minutes out, I check the upgrade list, and while I'm still #5, I notice that F is now showing booked 18/20.
So I check myself in again online, and low and behold, I'm offered a $70.74 "Difference in Fare, Upgrade Fee".
Now, while that may be the difference between my M fare and a F fare, it still stinks. I essentially stole the upgrade from who ever was #2 on the list, because I knew how to game the system.
I don't know what the solution is, but selling out your best customers for $70.74 certainly isn't it.
David