Hi all,

Have no status on Emirates. Want to fly one-way MXP-JFK. I have a ton of amex points but there is no first availability only business. So I thought maybe I could cash purchase a business class fare and then upgrade with miles. On Emirates flex fare it states upgrade to first is 30k miles.

How would I check availability in advance on ExpertFlyer? Am I looking for P fare availability? And can I upgrade as soon as I purchase the business class fare or with no status would I be limited to like 48 hours before departure or even have to wait same day?

If I can't do it in advance I might have to just purchase the first class fare.

Thanks for any and all help!