In 2013 and 2014 I was upgraded as a *G on MCO-FRA by LH, both times booked in the cheapest booking class. The first time around, I already saw the upgrade at OLCI and was able to select a J-seat, the second time around when I scanned my BP at the gate, the little seat change tag came out.

Last year my wife and I got upgraded (with just me being *G) on LHR-BRU, operated as codeshare by SN. Upon boarding the gate agent gave us new boarding passes with a handwritten “NO MEAL” note on them. Fortunately, we were offered something to eat anyway (or we wouldn’t have survived that 35 minute flight)...