Apologies for a novice question, but does pre-selecting a seat in economy affect the likelihood of receiving an op up? I am flying tomorrow on an Economy Flex Plus ticket, am Silver, but I selected a seat while checking in today. It looks like economy is not full (so my upgrade chances are nil for this flight), but wanted to know going forward.

Also, anyone have experience with JFK-DXB flight op ups (or the return flight)? I do the flight about 6-8 times per year and have received one upgrade in the past 2 years (ironically, the same flight that put me into Silver status).

Many thanks!