As has been stated numerous times, CO makes every effort to maximize the revenue earned from its International J product. Furthermore, BusinessFirst commands a significant price premium, especially on BF routes ex-EWR. Therefore, why should CO give away a product (by allowing deep-discount tix upgrades or generous Standard Reward redemption) that it is able to sell at top dollar?
The 72-hour rule is necessary not only because it cracked down on ficticious bookings, but because it also discourages last-minute ticket buyers from buying Y and upgrading vs. buying a J tix outright.
[This message has been edited by avek00 (edited 10-26-2002).]