Originally Posted by spaceflyer

Last week my sister had to fly out to be with her spouse in an emergency. I snagged her a ticket on UA (same day) using some of my miles. When she got to the airport they asked her why she was flying same day and she told them she was flying to be with her hubby who had just been hospitalized in serious condition in another city. They quietly upgraded her to business class (F was full), and she was so grateful. She said she was able to get some rest (before what has turned out to be a frightening ordeal at the hospital). So, you might consider that some folks who get upgraded aren't just kettles who are gaga over getting to sit in the champagne seats. They might be people heading out to face a trying situation and need all the rest and consideration they can get.