Better is a subjective judgement. It is randomized to not discriminate. Several people with the exact same higher date have to be added to list in a way that is fair. Class drops are not even a consideration. I'm surprised they don't just assign everyone NYC and the airplane they need most. Choices are really a luxury. The company is always short in NYC because people bid out ASAP. When I was hired I had a choice of M88 in 3 bases. I thouht that was generous that 4 of us didn't have to do NYC. I don't know what you think is better but look at it from the perspective of the employer offering a job.