A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Minneapolis: DL DM charter 2.3MM
Programs: A3*Gold, SPG Plat, HyattDiamond, MarriottPP, LHW exAccess, ICI, Raffles Amb, NW PE MM, TWA Gold MM
Posts: 102,617
I agree. When I am eligible for an upgrade and at the top of the priority list, I am entitled to it if there is an empty (and operable) seat. Some people might have "paid" for the upgrade by purchasing a higher fare class than they otherwise would have chosen.