Having been married to a QF staff member, I fondly remember the QEA fare basis (not so fondly remember the ex and the bumps from flights) Unfortunately, I never got to use it to the full extent that I intended .

Most of the posters here have got good knowledge of how it works. Multi-Sector needs to read NM's explanation, which was my understanding of the situation.

I never begrudge deadheading staff or pilots of that airline getting the J or F seats, if they are available after all fare-paying pax have been allocated.

Of course, it's always nice to know the CSS, particularly on a long-haul flight