Delta was the same with the number of jumpseats limited to those actually installed in the aircraft (which was 1 in most cases). That did change not too long ago.

I had an instance in ATL where I was offline, trying to get a jumpseat (back when it was limited). There was a mainline guy who was booked into it. The agents tried pleading with him to use a pass, so I could get on. He refused, stating he didn't think that an offline pilot should get on the plane before online buddy pass riders or something. He was very adamant about not using a pass. I'm assuming the agents went down and told the CA. He came up, pulled the guy into the jetway and the next thing I know, I'm getting the jumpseat. Not sure what happened, but I was grateful for the ride home, to both gentlemen.

Another time, when Song was still around, I was trying to get from LGA to Florida. The flight had 40+ open seats. The agent let me go down and when I got there, I found an Eagle guy also trying to get a ride. The CA looked at the 2 of us and the one jumpseat and said, "I don't think this is going to work." He told me to wait in the galley he'd be there in a few. The lead FA asked if I was getting left behind. I told her I didn't know. She said, "I hope not. There are 43 open seats." The CA then came out and told me to go with him. I asked if I should bring my bags and he told me to leave them at the plane. He walks me up the podium, puts his arm around me and says to the agent, "I don't care how you do it or show it, but this guy gets on this flight!"

It was a gesture that I'll never forget and I'm still thankful to this day to that CA for making sure I got home.

You Delta guys have always been a class act!

 

Just keep in mind that CSG/ATL is a REALLY short flight. If the flight is full (which normally it is with soldiers) and an alternate is required you will not have a chance of getting on the jumpseat.