Originally Posted by
Xyzzy
Indeed. The first time was when we were at checkin at NRT and NH denied the upgrade and insisted we talk to UA. We had already spoken t
UA about this clearing when we saw "I" space and it hadn't cleared. UA told us that it was all on NH. So, when it did clear and we were denied at checkin NH of course told us it was all on UA. 🙄 We insisted they call UA and after about 10min or so, during which we showed NH the UA app & such showing the upgrade, they suddenly reversed course and produced a J boarding pass. The key was being insistent as we were apologetically denied at least 5 times.
I guess United.com's verbiage to sit back and relax is completely lost during this process. From United.com:
MileagePlus® members can redeem PlusPoints for upgrade awards on select Star AllianceTM
partner airlines. Sign in to your MileagePlus account and use the tool below to check for upgrade availability on any upcoming flight. Once you’ve found and confirmed your upgrade, you can arrive at the airport relaxed and ready to enjoy all your benefits, whether it’s priority check-in and lounge access or a more personal level of service onboard. Upgrades are based on the operating carrier’s availability.
-RM