But where does this impact the GIDS list? I have seen seats disappear without any change in the GIDS list - I attribute this to sales or IROP or SDC FCers. I have been reaccomodated due to IROP (in one case because of a likely misconnect due to a delayed flight) directly into FC. In these cases, I was either on a A/P/F fare or I had already been upgraded on the original flight.

Personally, I find the IROP service recovery system to be another source of Delta schizophrenia - it all depends on the mood of the GA/TA/CS agent as to what happens. Automating and allowing FO IROPers to book a T fare into FC seems to be a bit over the top. Either protect the integrity of the upgrade process or stop it all together. When you compensate passengers for Mx/Wx by shuffling around seats on the plane, it costs Delta nothing. However, you do get a DM wondering how he went from #1 with 5 seats at T - 1 hour to #1 with 0 seats 30 minutes later. This leads to Shena citings and disgruntled travelers. Forget the WFBF malarky - the unlimited complimentary upgrades is an earned benefit and the expectation is that it actually does happen and does so in an equitable and consistent manner.

Book IROP on the next available in the fare class and cabin originally purchased. Book VDB the same way. If you want to compensate passengers for the inconvenience of IROP or the thank them for VDBing, do vouchers or miles.