Actually, this is not a confirmed situation since it happens so rarely. I don't recall seeing anything definitive on this, so this is a useful data point. The fact that the automated system seems to have shifted your position based on the instrument seems to show an instrument hierarchy. Usually, the fact that A is more available than X has made the hierarchy irrelevant and hard to distinguish.
This sure seems pretty compelling on the subject to me.
Cheers,
Bruce
Good to know it's not definitive, at least that we know of. I wish the gate agent would've actually confirmed I was actually first on the list. She was struggling with something regarding the fare bucket and instrument, but ultimately it worked. There were over 30 people on the list, and at least some other EXPs with higher comp status than me, so bottom line is that she selected me. However, I still think she processed me as a comp and just waived anyone who would've been ahead of me.
Based on what the last EXP desk agent told me and the Admiral's club staff, they consider the SWU a revenue seat versus a comp. seat so it should take precedent. That makes sense to me for sure. However, my confidence in revenue management releasing SWU inventory when under the 100 hour period is a bit less than it was before. Still too many unknowns to have any conclusive information except that you must work the problem at the airport. Had I not transferred lists or even gone to the gate agent for a quick check-up, I'm nearly certain I'd be in 13F right now. Even though the LAX-NRT is the big leg I needed, it wouldn't have felt so good to use an SWU and be on coach for a 3 hour domestic flight.