Originally Posted by
beancounter
I have a medical condition that makes it almost impossible to sit in an economy seat so I need a business or first class seat. I've never had a cancelled flight as yet but obviously if it were to happen I'd have to insist on a business/first seat on next available flight and if because of upgrading someone with status caused me to not get said seat there would be h*ll to pay.
The key is to understand the rules. If there first class seats open, you’ll be given that seat. If there aren’t any open, your choice - get on the next flight with a first class available seat or take the coach seat in the earlier flight.
The problem is when they get you into the roster on a standby basis. Then, as noted above, you’ll end up in coach due to procedure that Delta use.
From a practical perspective, I get into the FC seat as long as you call prior to the gate taking control. Once the gate takes control of the flight, all you can do is go the standby route.