Originally Posted by
blueheronNC
I think this is completely incorrect. Exit rows aren't released to non-preferred until OLCI if done on day of departure, and even then, there's a fee associated with the change (it's usually $55 on CLT-SFO, for example). It's not the case anymore where you can wait for midnight Phoenix time day of departure to check in and change to an exit row seat for free...
Most exit seats can be bought by anyone at anytime as a "choice" seat. On certain routes, certain seats may be blocked for preferred members until 24hrs prior, but that's certainly an exception to the rule.
All choice seats become free 45 minutes prior to departure.