I have a flight coming up with the following routing
IAD - GVA- MUC - BKK - SGN - BKK - FRA - IAD
I Used united miles to purchase flights in business class. I noticed that I could select first class for the first flight, IAD - GVA and it didn't increase the award cost at all because it was on a united flight.
My question is mostly about loung access. Am I considered a first class pax only before my IAD flight? Upon arrival in GVA? Throughout Europe? It is a long itinerary, but it shows up as a mixed cabin first class award if you search IAD - BKK. My understanding is if it is a first class award, even if I end up in an economy seat on a leg it is still a first class ticket for accessing the lounge. Is that accurate?