I think they simply figure that if upper level Medallions know they have a good chance at a free upgrade, they would rarely sell any of those seats up front, so they simply don't give them away! (NW threw you a bone every once in a while) Any employee will tell you that it's "part of their employment package" to be able to fly non-rev in BE on an int'l flight. Domestic - they know that Medallions are "SUPPOSED" to be upgraded before they are - - but that's "ANOTHER WHOLE CAN OF WORMS" we don't wanna open here!
