Originally Posted by
SFOTurtle
If you're finding W fares that are only $400 more roundtrip, that is pretty good. On some of the flights I was looking at it seemed like there was a much higher differential.
Well, on some flights I was looking at, there was no differential.
Originally Posted by
HKChicago
2. Is it possible/advisable to book in the lowest fare code, and plan to check "R" availability later? If R opens up, could I call in and pay the fare difference to change to W and apply the (immediately confirmed) upgrade?
In addition to the change fee already discussed, keep in mind that by the time "R" inventory is released (and stays there, assuming anyone on the waitlist has already cleared), you may not meet the advance purchase requirements of the W fare or there may not be any W inventory. If you want to use the SWU, you're really better off just paying to enter the lottery. Otherwise miles+co-pay is a better option.