I noticed similar promotions last year, such as one where online bookings would get you to Elite status faster.

I know that it only takes 20,000 miles to qualify for Elite and once you hit that level you are entitled to unlimited space available upgrades.

I partially live in STL, and nearly everyone here flies TWA. Yet it surprises me that with them diluting their Elite status and offering free upgrades for full-fare Y passengers connecting through STL, people like my father (who is Elite 1) can often get upgrades on the day of departure (such as when his travel plans change and he is rerouted). Is it simply that few business travelers outside of STL fly them?