Slightly related I was about to make a bid for PE but it will be cheaper to use miles I already have with VS. Problem is the first two rows are blocked off (seat is unavailable for selection) and the only seats I can pick are two middle seats. Any idea when VS "releases" the first two rows of PE or is this an unusual thing? I wonder if they are being held of bids.. For reference $2860 is the lowest acceptable bid for upper class right now! Flight departs in a couple of weeks right after Christmas.