Originally Posted by
Omnivore
You can definitely request the upgrade, but it may or may not clear, do you have your search set to expert mode? If so and it shows the NC bucket available that's Upgradeable space into Business.
To clarify further...in order to see how many seats may be available in the NC (upgrade to business from coach) bucket, you need to be in the "book with miles" section. Select "standard" award category to see more flights, including the one you wish to purchase, hopefully. Then, go back to the purchase with $$ section, purchase your ticket, and request the upgrade with your SWU.
I still don't understand why UA can't just show the NC/NF availability along with the other fare buckets on the purchase screen. Going back and forth to create a purchase with miles dummy booking is a complete waste of time.
Good luck. Maybe you should just call res.