I recently learned how to use this web site to determine the availibility of upgradeable (ie fare code "C") seats.

I have still not figured out how one can determine what actual seats (in the business class or economy cabins) have been taken (on a revenue or frequent flyer award or upgrade basis), and what actual seats have still not been taken.

I am particularly interested because my family and I have confirmed tickets to go to Bahamas vis Miami and Toronto from Ottawa on Xmas day. I am interested in getting the exact seating information by early Dec 24 AM at the latest, so that I can on a standby basis (ie without paying a penalty fee) book on a flight from Ottawa to Toronto on Xmas eve - I am concerned that I may get into trouble if by chance there is a winter storm that blows into Ottawa on Xmas day. I am not convinced that all of the AC flights will necessarily be full, just because it is one day before Xmas, as normally, I believe that AC is flying far from full capacity on this route (even on weekends?)?

PS-if there were standby seats available on flights from Ottawa to Toronto Island airport, should one take advantage of them in the winter time?