First come, first served definitely seems to be the rule.

I recently flew a non-stop transcon from California to EWR and they called for volunteers about 60 minutes prior to departure. The GA also announced what the alternative flights would be and they worked for me.

I was the third (and last) person to get to the podium to volunteer behind one male (first in line) and one female (second). The GA took my BP and I filled out the form. As I was completing the form the GA placed my BP on her counter next to the BPs from the other two volunteers. I noticed that they had no status (I'm very tall and it's easy for me to see over the top shelf).

Later they called me and the female to the counter and told us they didn't need our seats. I boarded and never saw the male (first in line) board so I assume he got the VDB.

So much for status making a difference .

I relaize it's the prerogative of the GA to take who they want in a VDB situation, but at least with PMUA status counted for something.

OBTW, the offer was for a coach seat and $250 in credits. I thought this was pretty low for a transcon.