Originally Posted by
jerseykeebs
I usually choose non-peak to avoid long lines and maximize time at my destination. In this case I hope it works out. Oh and they're still selling deep discount biz on UA's site, so I'm crossing my fingers $300 stays put
Is your 1483 a 16J or 28J aircraft? A good data point for you: I've never missed an RPU on the 6am on Saturday or Sunday over a sample size of maybe 15. That said, I would definitely waitlist the ug now/before T-1week:
1) UA often clear upgrades on that route way, way in advance, since J is so quiet. I often see R open, which suggests the WL is short, so even as no-status you should clear.
2) I've never not have the $299 offer appear even if I'm WLd for an upgrade. Worst case call web support and they'll pull up the offer for you manually. (I believe all that's required for it is ZN space.)
3) If you're flying a 28J plane, UA common practice is to overbook Y crazily (since they know they can never fill J with actual premium flyers at such an off-peak time), so unless you apply an UG in advance, J and Y often both zero out within T-24. By contrast, if they overbook the back and you're already on the WL, there's basically no way you don't clear.
Good luck!