My sister-in-law (no status) is traveling from EWR-LAX-MEL soon. It was a W fare and I sponsored her upgrade with my miles. The LAX-MEL segment cleared immediately, but her EWR-LAX is still waitlisted. Obviously, if her upgrade for EWR-LAX clears before she arrives at the airport, she can use the BF check-in counters. However, if it still has not cleared, does she have to check-in at the economy desk? Or will they let her check-in at the BF desk because she is flying BF in the longer sector? If she has to check-in at the economy desk, I will advise her to arrive at the airport earlier.

Thanks!