A regular query on here (and I guess most other air travel forums) is trying to work out the 'science' behind gate upgrades, where possible options include tier status, fare bucket, last name, tier mileage balance, etc.

Is there any reason why these variables can't be programmed into the check-in systems to generate a list? I'm guessing no two people will be the same when you factor in all of the above, so the computer should be able come up with an ordered list. Then all they need to do at check-in / the gate is to offer it to #1, #2, #3 in order - and if #3 says no for whatever reason (eg travelling with partner who isn't upgraded) then move to #4 and so on.

I'm aware in the US some airlines display op-up priority on the boarding screens - can Emirates not do this as well? Or does it already happen minus the public display?

In the US, there's not really any such thing as an op-up on domestic flights.

Every flight will be full in F, as elites are entitled to upgrades in a strict order. That's why they show the upgrade list on the screens - to keep it transparent.

For EK, I don't think there's much wrong with the current system. Op-ups are not an entitlement of status, but a way to get round overselling of the cabins. Generally, the higher the status, the more chance you have of an op-up. But, I'd guess they'd upgrade a single Silver passenger in preference to a Gold who was traveling with another person in the event of needing to upgrade one person.

Maybe EK will go down the BA route... limit the number of op-ups passengers can get, and start op-upping Blues to give them a taste of a higher cabin. That makes a lot of sense to me

Ex DXB it is already quite regimented.

Ex anywhere else its still a free for all.

I heard they were changing this but who knows...