That's not entirely accurate as is true of most blanket statements. About two years ago, when UA still was flying aircraft with FC cabins to/from LAS, I asked the GA about the possibility of an upgrade for me and my wife on the LAS/ORD return leg. He was quite polite, gave me little hope of success, but did take our names. We had just completed the first half of our first rt on UA having bolted Delta via a status match (Prem Exec) with UA. Obviously, we hadn't earned any 500 milers or the like. Moments before boarding began, the GA called us to his post, gave us FC passes, and welcomed us to UA.

We have also landed complimentary upgrades on USAir and Delta over the past few years. All were obtained because we asked.

lex