Hello all, I'm new to this site but looks like a great resource and lots of interesting info.

Any tips out there for surviving my flight from MIA to Madrid next week? I'm on a 777, Seat 31B (I was able to select the exit seat due to Gold status). I booked the flight months ago using FF miles so the ticket is T-class--apparently not upgrade-able.

1) Is there any way to negotiate an upgrade to biz class at the airport? (i.e. pay $$, use 500-mile upgrades, use miles, etc...) Will a smile and gold status get me anywhere or is it not worth trying?

2) If I'm stuck in the rear, any advice regarding staying in the exit seat (with more legroom) or switching to a center-cabin aisle seat on the hopes that no-one will select the vacant seat next to me? The center-cabin seats are about 1/2 full at this point.

Thanks for any input!