Originally Posted by
canadiancow
Status has no relation to GTE.
Are there seats available when you check in? If so, you don't get GTE.
If not, as was the case here, you get GTE.
As SE (AC's top status), I've had GTE on AC flights. There's virtually no risk of not getting on the plane, as they'd probably bump someone with a confirmed seat assignment before bumping me, but it can definitely happen to anyone.
Pretty sure status counts for the order GTE gets loaded onto the flight, no? Same as standby.
Also, if you get GTE, you get a nice little sticker. No matter who you argue with. Best case scenario they remove it and put it back once you're gone.
But c'mon man. You should know better to not wait this long as a *G unless you want to play upgrade lotto. And even at that...