Originally Posted by
boognish24
I was on LH 447 from DIA - FRA on 11/30, first time applying a GPU cert C=> F. I only got to the airport about 3 hours before the flight, and it was a complete mess checking in, as there were only 5 check in agents for the entire flight.
After being nervous in the check-in line hoping the pax in from of me wouldn't snag that last upgrade, I was able to apply my certificate without any problem. It turned out only 4 of the 8 F seats were occupied... which seemed shocking considering there were ~90 business class seats that were completely full, and the fact that Denver is a United Hub...
I doubt I'll have the same ease trying to apply the certification for my FRA - DIA return flight next week, so I may try to check in the night before.
A half full F cabin on DEN/FRA is normal (indeed on the high side) especially since LH inexplicably holds back award inventory on this route. While I suspect you will have no problem clearing (as long you arrive 3:30 hours before check in), if you can check in the night before and clear, this is to your advantage as you will then be able to use the first class terminal the next day.
I've never had a problem getting a seat in F on LH, the problem is always the meals. At an out station the worry is that a pax in front of you will get the last F meal. At FRA, the staff strictly hold to the three hours before check in requirement to cater meals. That is when I've failed to clear.