Hello all,

I don't know whether this is the right forum to post my query but it doesn't hurt to ask.

So,


I'm planning a self funded business trip to NYC in September.

I'm A3*G and OW Sapphire (CX now but will status match to Air Berlin).
I generally tend to prefer flying star than any other alliances.

Since the trip will be self-funded I'm going to fly Y (the cheapest the better)
but I want to maximise my chances of getting upgraded to C or premium economy or at least secure an exit row seat.

I can also get status matched to china airlines so can get skyteam elite plus status

So what should I choose between united, ba and delta economy ?

What's united's policy on free upgrades to economy plus or business for star alliance golds? It's probably my worst choice as the flights that suit me are on 757s (never flew it before, is it that bad?)

Also would you fly la compagnie? I can still find an excellent price (732 gbp) which I would have booked if my trip had been confirmed

I'm flying on the 1st or 2nd September and coming back on the 5th or 6th.

Thanks