In Memoriam, FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2000
Location: Benicia CA
Programs: Alaska MVP Gold 75K, AA 3.8MM, UA 1.1MM, enjoying the retired life
Posts: 31,849
I'm not sure those gate displays operate in real time. I was in the AC at DFW a few weeks ago and asked to get on an earlier DFW-SFO flight (but not to pay the $25 to confirm it), and the agent said she would put me on the list. The computer actually cleared my flight change, and she handed me an uprgraded boarding pass to F (the flight was very lightly booked--Labor Day weekend).
When I arrived at the gate for departure, I saw my name on the monitor for an upgrade (only person on the list). I guess my name didn't drop off that list when they upgraded and ticketed me in the AC.