Flying SEA to BOS in a couple of weeks. I have some Gold paper certs and there is U availability. I know I can call the Gold desk, tell them I have some paper certs I want to use, and they will upgrade me to Gold. Then I'll bring the paper certs to the airport at check-in and it'll all work out.

My question is... let's say it's 71 hrs before the flight (so all Golds have been upgraded) and there is *still* U availability. Can I call the Gold desk and tell them I've changed my mind on wanting to use paper certs?

The intent would be to go back to Coach but then automatically be upgraded into First Class based on my status and saving my paper certs for another time.

I haven't yet flown to BOS enough to know if there's ever U availability at 72 hrs prior to departure during the week. I'm guessing it's a popular business route and the answer is no. But I'm wondering if this scenario with the paper certs could work for me.

Thanks.