Originally Posted by
PanAmWT
Assuming your children are all under 14, I would split the reservation as 2 (adult + child) and 4 (adult + 3 children). In this way in case UA releases 2 PN prior to D-24h, you will get them. Within D-24 it doesn't matter what you do.
You could also split as 3 and 3, each one adult+2 children, but you risk of being skipped prior to D-24h. if UA releases 2 PN.
Your best chance to get one upgrade is to split as 1 + 5.
If you don't do anything, UA will skip you prior to D-24h since it is highly unlikely they will release 6PN prior to D-24h.
Within D-24h UA will upgrade you at close of check in (30 minutes before departure?) according to how many seats are still available. In such a case the children age <14 rule will most likely ignored.
Someone has suggested that you can call GS desk to find out the cash DOD price. I have never tried.
Assuming children are all "underage", there is NOT a second adult. OP has indicated in the referenced post her husband is NOT traveling with the rest of the family.
Assuming there are "underage" in the group, you can't leave them by themselves in economy.
Forget the splitting, J or Y cabin together, nothing in between.