Same day standby is quite normal in the u.s. So is upgrading everyone to ensure that the front cabin is full. Also normal is no meal service on a 6 hour flight leaving at 2010 departure time zone, 1710 arrival time zone, even in F.

American carriers do things differently to european carriers.

I agree putting people on an earlier flight when they have a short connection would make sense, but I guess Ba's view is slippery slope related - the fear of setting expectations.