Originally Posted by Mwenenzi

USA based airline ffp's tend to be more generous (status benefits/earn/burn/upgrades/award cost/award cash surcharges/expiry) compared to non USA based airline ffp’s. (even after the recently announced changes to some USA ffp’s)

As for upgrades with airlines based out of the USA always, expect to fly in the class you buy. It is only USA based airlines that give out upgrades like confetti for free (by status or upgrade instruments), or with miles and/or cash co pay (for less than the full fare). There is an expectation by many USA frequent flyers they deserve a (free) upgrade.