I'll add a comment here... one thing that has occured to me on recent flights is the differences when the loads are light and when they are heavy.. F is always great, no matter if the cabin is full, but NCW.. well, when its light I can see the rational behind not justifying the extra for F but when its full its a totally different story... pain to get out of the windows seats (which I prefer as much more private for sleeping), slow service, and the economy-esque packed in feeling... from this angle F is always a safer bet especially on a route where loads can change drastically right up until departure.
To me the most important thing on a long flight is to feel comfortable and airy; food, alcohol and entertainment are maybe 5% of the equation.
[This message has been edited by dnw (edited 08-24-2003).]