Originally Posted by xliioper

The $400 Amex statement credit is decent choice since you have the Reserve card. Be aware, if you wait until Feb 1st to make selection, it will go down to $250. Regional Upgrade Certs require Z class inventory to clear immediately. First class fare classes are J, C, D, I, and Z with Z being the cheapest. If you have some flexibility and can fly during non-peak periods, they generally are not all that difficult to use. If you primarily fly during more expensive peak periods for your trips, you may be more frustrated. Delta.com shows the fare class in the details when selecting flights. So you could look at some prospective trips you might want to take to see if there are any flights with Z class open to see if they would be upgradeable.