Originally Posted by
BondGuy
I am a newly minted Elite (first time with status in living memory), with benefits beginning next March.
We (H/W) are thinking of a couple of weeks in Italy, and if we go are pretty much committed to YYZ FCO on June 5, returning June 20.
With the current seat sale (?) we can book Tourist (K) for $2509 return for both of us. As I understand AE*E benefits, this is a non-upgradeable fare.
Or, we can book Leisure (L) for $3457 rt for two. This is upgradeable with a SSWU within 4 days.
So, what are the chances we can upgrade on one of the two flights; of course, our preference would be the outbound, as it is overnight, but the return leg would be fine. But, I don't feel like paying the extra $1000 or so if the chances of using a SSWU are slim to nil; I would use the money I save to self-medicate prior to the long flight in Y.
Thoughts?
Personally, I wouldn't spend the extra $1,000 for the chance of an upgrade. If you do, you will spend far too much time thinking and worrying about it, between now and when you return.
Look at it this way, flight is about 7 hours each way, the two of you are saving $71 per hour each way. Spend the money at your destination.
Check upgradeable fares within 4 days of departure (Elite upgrade window for SSWUs), if fare difference is reasonable and you can confirm upgrade with I space, then consider spending the money on the outbound leg, do the same for return if so inclined.