It's just my guess that there's a 90% probability they reserve the best seats (747 62K anyone?) reducing the on-line seat selection options for the paying pax ...
No, sorry that's a conspiracy theory too far for me. There is no such policy and all Staff Travel ( Duty or personal) is audited - BA Staff can and indeed have been the subject of disciplinary action for abusing or interfering with the system.. and that includes the odd manager; some here will "No" who I mean
. Anyone stepping out of line by trying something like you suggest would be shown the door pronto.
Finally can I wish you and everyone else virtually here a Happy Christmas..