Also, never forget that there are other ways to qualify for an upgrade. Duty time > 11:30 at the end of a trip is one of the easiest ways.

8.A.4

b. A class of service higher than coach shall be authorized if:


i. a deadhead exceeds 5 scheduled block hours; or


ii. a deadhead is included in a single duty period exceeding 11:30; or


iii. the scheduled block hours of a revenue flight plus the scheduled block hours of a deadhead in a single duty period exceed 8 hours. However, if a domestic duty period does not exceed 11:30 and a deadhead within that duty period does not exceed 1:30 (OAG) block, the deadhead may be scheduled in coach