This is still one of the things most in need of attention. I don't understand why you can upgrade a travelling companion on the same PNR if the U/G clears in advance but the companion's U/G is based on his/her own status at the gate. It didn't used to be that way. Several times I've had to turn down U/G's because my wife or daughter's wouldn't clear. On the other hand, once or twice a GA has bumped my daughter up the list to U/G with me. It should be handled the same at the gate as a matter of policy, though.