My friend has been CX Marco Polo Gold for the past 3 years and flies CX 4-8 times a month. Used to be all in F or J, but now in J or Y due to corporate cutback. He's never once been upgraded, op or courtesy, (either Y to J, or J to F) and has never even received any upgrade voucher.

Today he flew back from Seoul to HKG on a full flight and was not upgraded. However, his colleagues (one Gold and one non-status) were upgraded.

He's not a problem customer - he's polite & easy-going and never complains. Is he just not lucky with CX? Could it be due to his vegetarian meal requests? (I've overheard TG staff at the HKG lounge talking about special meal passengers, as well as families with children, not being considered for upgrades.)

Does anyone know for a fact what CX policy is on upgrading CX Gold passengers with special meal requests?

If there is in fact such a policy, it's misguided and inequitable. My friend doesn't care about getting an upgraded meal and would be perfectly happy with his ticketed special meal. His main concern is a more comfortable seat.