Originally Posted by
OtleyFlyer
much of the moaning you see hereabouts is down to the fact that 1Ks have "free" upgrades using vouchers which require at least a W fare which can cost much more than the cheapest fare on a route
It's true a W fare is more expensive than an S or L on international trips. But to upgrade those cheaper fares with miles requires a $500 co-pay (each direction). So, the W fare with the SWU is still cheaper.