Guy,
In the aftermath of 9/11, and the biggest knee jerk by my beloved employer ever, (and God knows they are famous for them) Familarization (FAM) trips have been suspended UFA. Part of the problem is the lack of verifying who I am showing up to occupy space in the cockpit (or is it more PC to say "flight deck" now?) Concurrently and by no coincidence Pilots of other airlines cannot FAM or Jumpseat on other companies aircraft. (herein lies the true problem, they certainly arent going to let ATC ride up front if they cant jump on another carriers aircraft, and for that I do not blame them) Furthermore, to answer the second part of your question, No we never give preferential treatment to an aircraft carrying one of our own!
Hi, I'm from the government and I'm here to help.
Jeff