Originally Posted by
readywhenyouare
That's why it's called a "complimentary upgrade". Just like Costco gives out complimentary samples. Are you going to demand a free package of cheese if they run out of samples when you reach the front of the line? You are not guaranteed something complimentary. Equipment swaps, inoperative seats, etc can all cause a downgrade. And anyone who was upgraded for free should be the first to be downgraded.
Actually, in the hospitality industry you are often "guaranteed" something that is listed as "complimentary".
For example, at Hyatt a globalist gets:
10 Base Points per eligible $1 USD spent, plus a Week of Wellbeing and complimentary classes when paying an eligible rate at any Hyatt hotel.
So, pay an eligible rate and you are "guaranteed" free classes.