For an example, AA's LAX-LHR on its new 77W is a very difficult route for an SWU to be confirmed in advance. Much more tightly controlled than, say, ORD-NRT on a summer day.

If AA were to have DFW-HKG on a 77W or 772, I am sure upgrades would be tightly controlled, like LAX-LHR. And that is fine with me. In my opinion, AA filling the J/F cabin with last minute SWU upgrades is a much better outcome than letting those seats go out empty. There is obviously not much of exceptional service to be had on AA. I would be happy with just the seat.

And if AA were to start DFW-HKG on a 77W, we would then be talking identical J seats on CX's 77W and AA's 77W.