Sure - I think six times in a dozen years, I've gotten an operational upgrade. And I'm certain it was always because I'm inordinately civil, polite, and gracious. . Nah - I figured I must have looked like the overworked consultant I was and they thought I might live to the end of the route if they put me in first.

Starbaby - you can buy a "business class" seat (but no real food ) on AirTran at the gate if there is availibility - something like $25 per segment ??