Originally Posted by BumpMe!
For the last second purchases, I say give out the upgrades and open up Y inventory.
If these procrastinating passengers only buy at the last second and probably don't fly too much, I'm of the opinion they deserve coach seating!
Reward those who are loyal and give the once-in-a-while passenger exactly what they pay for: a singular seat.
While I agree with you as a FFer who loves his upgrades, it certainly makes more business sense to sell the seat in first at the higher price then they can get for Y. Remember, quite often when you are travelling via an international gateway such as LAX, SFO, IAH or EWR the people paying for first are often connecting from overseas on CO or a partner airline. Given the business fares over $5000 for a majority of these flights, CO is smart for holding back seats until the last day.