The Good Thief had a Baptism of Desire.
Not all people have that. Or ask for it like he did.
He also had been chosen to hang next to Christ during the crucifixion. A special honor. He also recognized Jesus had committed no crime.
Throughout the gospels those that are blessed to recognize the divinity of the Lord despite his human form were rewarded.
The question was not about what all people have or want, but about what is possible.