Okay, I was thrilled that finally I had a paid flight under 1000 miles (SNA-Den) that I could use the certificates that had been piling up. I applied online and got my outgoing flight, but was waitlisted on the incoming one. At the counter, the agent said my ticket didn't qualify, but hold on. I pleaded ignorance (which is true!). Very nicely, she said I was in! The nice part was going through the special security line (this was on Aug. 11) and avoiding long wait. Thought I'd try the return flight but told my ticket was not the right one. Oh, well.... Guess those VISA upgrade certificates don't work for the infrequent traveler.