I work for an aircraft leasing company and so I get to see the attitudes of different airlines.
Most airlines these days are trying to reduce the commanders rights.
I am currently working on contract to excel in London, And I can not believe how they treat there crews, They want good will from the crew but are not willing to show good will back.
I was told if I bought a crew ticket for my girl friend to travel on a flight with me and economy was full even with seats available in Business they would have to leave here behind.
Also there is strickly no upgrades for staff.
For me this is the biggest kick in the balls from the company and shows disrespect.
The airlines from Spain and South American could not be better, these managers are intelligent, they know it costs nothing to give the Captain the authority to upgrade into any class, and in return lots of good will from their staff, And this good will, will save thousands of $$$$.