Getting SWUs
 

I was just wondering if the only way to get SWUs through the Choice Benefits option. I don't think I'm ever on an applicable fare to actually use them, but I was just curious if there is another way of earning them.

Thanks,
Alex

Nope, thats it.

I can't recall SWUs being targeted or offered as part of a promo except for PMNW FFers who did more than 125,000 status miles IIRC way back in prehistory, but one can argue that this was a precursor to the DL choice benefits program.

Last year, some people received a promotional offer that included upgrade certificates. Much to the chagrin of PMs and DMs, they were good on any fare, too. That was around the same time they were giving away Plat status for 6 segments... all targeted offers though. Short of something like that, Choice Benefits are the only way.

Were they good for BE or just domestic? If BE on any fare, that was amazing given DL's attitude about preserving the integrity of BE.

These certificates were good for confirmed upgrades within/between the lower 48 states and Alaska. No international routes were upgradable with them.

It is possible to earn SWU-like certificates through SkyBonus, but they are region-specific. However, since all regions are available, having a sufficiently large quantity of SkyBonus points can make you eligible to redeem an upgrade certificate for any flight in the DL network.

There is no gift/purchase market, as the named PM/DM must be traveling in order for a companion to use an SWU.

Perhaps the OP's real question.