I’ve seen it happen once for overbooked conference… doesn’t seem like a big deal if you’re not in the same bed or anything, as long as it’s not just to save a buck.
If you do not have one (and travel with Delta a fair amount), go get a Delta Amex card. They give you good mile benefits and if you get the right level card, free access to DL lounges even if you fly coach.
I am a believer in picking an airline and only flying them (I also happen to use Delta). The other week, I was upgraded for free on the way back from DUS to ATL. First time that has happened!
That’s my strategy too, especially when you live in a hub ( Continental hub was in Houston, so we’d use if for everything…)
Travel hint to Asia: Row 31 in coach on Delta’s 777 - there’s an extra 8" of legroom in the bulkhead row. I just flew 4 legs in row 31 and it’s like a poor man’s business class with crappy food.
Great tip… now if I can only remember next time !
For the original topic - nobody at our studio flys first class, but I’ve heard it’s very common up at DCA