I think the thread subject is misleading based on one experience.

I think you'd find that the U seats once released do not go straight back into U inventory, but general J, then QF's YM algorithm at the time, based on load booked, demand, history etc at that point in time, only allowed one J seat back into U. That's the way it works. It's not a conspiracy by QF. It's the way they do business and try and make some money It suggests they have some more paid bookings on the flight, which is a good thing for them.

Agree you should have contacted AA re the domestic sector.