I make sure before I leave the original gate that I am set - that is I would not have left without FC seat assignment.

FWIW I was asked to VBD this week from a connection to a direct on a RJ. I asked if could get my original MQM - no, would they give a FC seat - no only put me on the upgrade list, was a seat on the 8:50am flight available - yes, but since it left 5 min after my original flight and would get me in before my connecting flight - no Delta $$. So I declined and kept my original seats and collected the MQM miles. All of the above was per policy but with no flexibility I ain't going to VBD.


I have also had a mutual VBD before getting to airport because of weather in Philly. We agreed to the flight the next day which was great cause we needed more time and they immediately gave us both FC seats. A win-win.