The days of automitcally putting staff in the free seats up front are long gone unfortunately. DL used to be quite generous, regardless of priority or carrier you worked for.

Out of curiosity, addressing this to other forum members, can you purchase ZED business class on OAL carriers. Such as those in your alliance. Or co-operation and joint venture partners? Eg, DL and VS. Or within Skyteam etc.

At Star Alliance, LH and UA, as well LH and Thai, TAP, Avianca and quite some others. We can purchase and fly in business class.