I have flown on US in the past (including the hub in PHL), but never from SAN.

I am a Star Alliance Gold with AC's Aeroplan; I have no status with the US frequent flyer program.

I will be flying on the US flight from SAN to PHL with the departure past 11 AM, this Sunday.

My questions:

a) Can I still access the UA lounge in SAN - US is still part of Star Alliance - does it use the same terminal building/concourse as UA?

b) I am seated by the window (by choice). But I almost near the back row.
I could have had a window seat closer to the front of the economy class (coach) cabin, but for a fee. But as it does not have an increased seat pitch (as is the case with UA E+ seats), I decided to decline that seat.

I was also told that the emergency row seats will not be released except at the airport.

What is the best way to get an emergency row or front row seat, and also without a fee? Do on-line check-in, or check-in at the airport? Or do both - do the on-line check-in, and then change the seat selection at the airport?


c) what are the chances of being offered a last minute upgrade (for a lower fee than I were to upgrade today) to the front cabin on that flight?