That's probably the point. Most people who use aeroplan don't have any clue about using the tools and schemes used by people on FT. I know more SE's off of FT than on FT and all of them have no clue about what is discussed here.

The other point I think you are missing is that people who redden for business class want to have the business class seat at the time of booking and not have to deal with waiting at the airport.

I think AC wanted to limit the number of upgrades given out, and they have achieved it. Your method of getting a business class seat probably doesn't even reach 1% of the business class bookings redeemed.

Hell, I know about these methods and I can't even be bothered to go through the hoops - I have better things to do with my time. Guess that means AC's system is working - to some degree.