Traveling on an international itinerary with a non-status companion. I want my upgrades on the domestic segments & realize that it will come at the cost of diminished free luggage allowance. Questions:

1.) Does it matter WHEN you split your reservation? Specifically, does it impact your upgrade chances? (e.g. splitting 60 days out vs. 8 days out)

We currently have EC on more than 6 segments. Considering keeping the PNR together until just before the first sweep in case of last minute equipment changes. Thoughts? Is Pre-Check affected in any way?

2. In the case of IROPS, what are the "magic words" (if any) to get your companion routed/treated the same.

3. Will companion's EC seats "hold" after the split?

Grateful for any tips or inside (official or anecdotal)

PPP