I am flying from the LBA (Leeds, UK) to AMS to MSP next week on NWA. My flight on AMS to MSP is jam packed in the coach section not set aside for elites. However, there are lots (and lots) of permium seats available (I don't have status) that should open up the day before the flight.

Since I will be checking in on-line for a connecting flight, does that give me a 2 hour edge over the people checking in only for AMS to MSP? Or, is the 24 hour advance check-in not a rigid time period? I sure would like to move to a better seat and any advantage I have would be great.

Accidently posted this on Delta forum initally. Did not mean to crosspost.