All I know is that this year and last I have seen less and less upgrades on my trips. I know that I am only Gold, but I remember the time when I was upgraded almost every flight. Doesn't seem worth it anymore. The first class meals are not all that great anymore anyway and service is spotty. Plus last trip CLE to LAX all the coach customers were using the first lav. They were even standing in the aisle waiting and the flight attendants didn't mind at all. I did though. Was tacky and annoying. I am considering jumping ship and going to Delta.