Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Programs: UA Premier Gold, Starwood Gold, Plat AE, CO PP MC, Marriott Rewards Plat, Virgin Elevate Gold
Posts: 1,416
I've seen empty seats as well.
That said, I would likely fork over any upgrade fee at the airport if offered (in the rare chance I wasnt already confirmed into BF)
To be honest, on intl flights like this, I wont go if I'm not up front.
Understand your situation different if traveling for work though!