Originally Posted by Governator

Looking for advice on upgrading a NH award ticket bought with VS miles. My wife and I are traveling next month ORD-NRT. I'm in F, she's in J. I know it's unlikely to get another F seat, but could someone walk me through the mechanics of doing so under that unlikely possibility? I have an expertflyer Award/Upgrade (O) alert set for the flight, plus I check the flight via UA/AC every few days. If something opens up, I'm guessing it requires a VS call and lots of luck? How about at the airport - any last minute openings? Would I still have to call VS? Any better way to track it? FWIW I do have enough VS miles for upgrade - or even reissue if that's required.

I know this is unlikely so second part of question is about letting my wife sit in F. I've done it enough, want her to have my seat (I won't cheat and go visit her or anything). I'm thinking it best to do it on the plane, just show boarding passes to crew and let them know we've swapped. Any issues with that or better way to handle it?

Originally Posted by Dave510

I don't see any issue with that. The crew wouldn't even need to remember a new last name, just swap Mr. Governator for Mrs. Governator.

Originally Posted by Stgermainparis

I agree. There is no reason for FA to decline the swap, esp if you are letting your wife have the better seat. But honestly worst case scenario is simply that they decline and she is in business and you in first, as ticketed.