I'm looking at the "no programs, so sad" under the OP's name. Maybe he's never been in an AS lounge before? We used to all the time when we had status and/or F tickets, but honestly I could care less now. I can buy a drink or food myself, if I want space and quiet, especially in PDX, there are often many unused at the moment gates where you can veg off by yourself. Of course if we ever got status back I'd be first at the door.

So even though I wouldn't do it, I do disagree that it would be taking a seat away from someone who needs it - on the contrary, I think it would elate the next person on the upgrade list.