[The_Judge]

This is the epitome of why a passenger, revenue or non-revenue, should NOT be told what number they are on the list. That number can fluctuate depending on an almost infinite number of circumstances. He may have been at the top of the list at one time and then depending on what goes on, he may drop down. I sincerely wish agents wouldn't give numbers out as it only makes the gate agent look like a fool.

I do feel bad for someone when they feel they didn't get something they deserved. That being said and truly no offense to the OP but an economy ticket was purchased and that's what you received.

I remember when I was working, CO (and NWA but I never ever saw it or did it myself) supposedly used to post the standby list for public viewing. I never really agreed with it but it would have put a stop to the practice the OP is talking about. Did they do that in this case?? Is that how you know who was given the 3 F-class seats?