Well, like everything else, it was negotiated item with a cost. So yes, it was "fought for" at the mainline level. Although the mantra among many was that it's a "no cost" item. Whatever, it's done and over with.

Remember, most it not ALL "regional" airlines had unlimited cabin jumseats with NO reciprocity at the mainline level. This was before the legacies stepped into the 20th century and decided to allow it on their equipment.

Mainline/legacy carrier commuting pilots have been enjoying the unlimited cabin JS'er privilege on "regional" carriers long before mainline/legacy pilots "fought" for it.

Also worth noting, you didn't "fight for it" just so "regional" pilots could take advantage of it, the OTHER legacy pilots benefit as well.

Over 1O years of commuting on every legacy and many LCC's to 8 different domiciles. I ALWAYS politely ask the CS if I can request an OMC card. Then I ALWAYS say hi to the lead/purser/FA at the door, and ask if I can step up front and see about a ride home/to work. Then I ALWAYS politely ask if I can get a ride with them, OMC card, ID, medical and cert in hand. Back in the days when an OMC card was issued, but no seat assigned I would ALWAYS ask the lead/purser where they wanted me to stand till all the seats were full, as well as where they want me to sit when it's time. If FC was offered, great!! Always nice to get, if they said they wanted me in the back, OK, and off I go.

It's NOT rocket surgery.