Hi all

I have a flight booked in Y JFK - DXB return in July/August. I've managed to upgrade the return.

Both flights seem to be empty (according to my brother's expertflyer), but the DXB-JFK segment is showing no upgrade availability. I have 2 questions.

1 - Someone told me upgrades are being released closer to the departure date now, do you think that's right? As in the flight was booked too far in advance (December)?

2 - Reading on here, people keep recommending trying to upgrade at the airport (I'm a Gold already on the waiting list) - if there is a free seat in business and I have the miles to do so, will they do this if I ask? Or does it have to be a free AWARD seat that's available?

Thanks in advance
Francine