Points upgrade at the checkin desk?

I don't hold out much hope for it, but would like to ask anyway.

Burned out miles on UC upgrades and have enough for PE to UC upgrade, and flying non upgradable fare core to LV in December. I'd really hope to get an miles upgrade without the flexible fare, but know its a long shot...

Anyone had much luck? Where do you ask? Checkin? Is asking at twilight checkin worth it? If they list a cash price for upgrade, does that sometimes mean they'll take miles?

Or am I just wishing upon a star... (I realise that going over might be extremely unlikely, but coming back might not be).

Hi Smid

Do OLCI in the normal way, then ask at check-in. The standard response should be that you will hve to pay $$$ to upgrade your K to a W and then you could use miles to move to a G (upper reward bucket) .... if one is available. The price will depend on the cost of the S or W buckets that are available. (Thinking out loud, I'm not sure if there has to be a W or S available if you want the G, but there will be a price).

As you are travelling in peak holiday time, don't get your hopes too high on availability.


Good luck!

[Neil]

I think your biggest obstacle will be the lack of UC seats. LAS is a very popular route in UC and with only 14 UCS on the a/c they sell out fast.

Always worth asking, but don't get your hopes up.

Yes, I know I can pay that fare difference, but its madness, it will likely to be 2K per leg.... And yes, I know its peak period and limited spaces...

They still seem to be taking bookings for UC though, but from the involuntary downgrade threads recently, that means nothing...

There are tales of people getting upgraded from a non upgradable fare code on occasions though...