I'm eyeing the EWR-SIN or JFK-SIN route with SQ in the premium economy section on their ULR a350s. We are a family of 3 and my ideal seating config is to book row 39A, 39C, and 40C: with 40C being the solo seat. At one time the solo seats were held for PPS club members. And in the event they weren't taken by PPS members they would be open to anyone at the 72hr mark prior to the flight. More recently it was reported that SQ was allowing people to upgrade to the solo seats for $140 at the time of booking regardless of PPS status. I have no status with the airline but before I either 1) move points to Krisflyer for a premium economy award, or 2) pay cash for premium economy seats I am wondering if anyone has experience with booking the solo seats. Using expert flyer it appears that the solo seats are blocked off when you look many months out. Closer in they are sometimes blocked off and sometimes occupied. --This is the pattern I would expect if they were being held for PPS members. Will I be able to book 3 people with cash fares and select a solo seat from the get-go? Also, can I book 3 seats using miles and pay an extra $140 for the solo seat or do I have to wait and gamble on the 72hr window thing? It may seem like a small thing but I would really like to avoid the row of 4 in the middle for this length of flight.
Any input is appreciated.