slappy,

Welcome to the world of nonrev travel. Nonrev travel is great. However, it can sometimes be very frustrating. Your friend was correct. The chances of you being upgraded to FC (first class) or BC (business class) is slim to none. May I offer some bits of wisdom from years of flying nonrev?

First: conventional flight planning does not apply to nonrev travel. When I first started flying nonrev, I would list myself for a flight months in advance. I was lulled into a false sense of seat security when I saw all the open seats. Now, I plan on flights, plan on contingencies, and start to check available seating no more than two weeks prior to departure date. I only list myself six days before my departure. Because, under seven days paying customers have to pay full fare for an airline ticket. No one wants to pay full fare anymore, and I feel pretty safe about getting a seat (if a seat is available).

Second: A smile and a pleasant attitude goes a long way to resolve any issues at the gate on on board the flight. I can't tell you how many times I've been treated like royalty when I've done nothing more than smile and be friendly.

Have fun, travel smartly, and remember to smile.

Cheers,
Skip White
US Airways Retiree