I'd set up an alert on EF for D inventory on DXB-CMB a couple months out. Got the email, went to upgrade, nada, thought I'd missed it.

Was looking at it again and saw availability. Went to ek, pulled up the reservation, and nada, no availability.

Started looking at award space. Turns out DXB-CMB is available as Saver J redemption, but FCO-DXB-CMB (same DXB-CMB flight) is only available as Flex J for both segments.

Previously, individual legs would have been flex/ saver with upgrades being available on the Saver legs, but awards being charged at higher of the two rates. Now they've enhanced the program to prevent people from redeeming upgrades as well.