Originally Posted by SFOPhD

You're partially correct. On UA metal, your companion gets your status. That is true until the upgrade waitlist goes under control of the airport gate. Once there, everyone is on their own status.

For example, it's possible that your dad could have cleared with you at 72 hours if you're a 1P, you cleared, and there was another free spot. Once you're at the airport, however, you would clear alone. This explains the very different positions on the airport upgrade list.