I have seen a number of people complain on FT about the inability to purchase F a couple of days out as no F seats are available.

If I were United I would be wanting to monetize outright sale of F seats.

Yes, elites would like to know they are going to get the upgrade but I believe elites would be far less concerned if United stopped the cheap TODs which is ar the expense of their elites.

As a 1K member I understand United is in the business of making money and I have no issue with receiving my upgrade close to boarding or at time of boarding. My gripe is the cheap upfare available to non elites - that just "cheapens" the experience for everyone and actually makes it some ways more desirable to be a non elite flyer....