I'm flying next week to HNL via MSP on NW for the first time. From searching, I've read that any open Premium and Coach Choice (I'm willing to pay their fees) are made available around 24 hours before the departure of the flight.

Since my flight leaves from my home airport much earlier in the day, will I be able to snag coach choice seats for my MSP-HNL leg when I check in online? When should I check in...24 hours before my flight leaves from my home airport...or 24 hours before my connecting flight departs from MSP? There is a 4/5 hour difference.

As it stands right now, I'm stuck with a middle seat and will die on that 8+ hour leg of my trip and my company only pays for business class seats on Int'l flights.

Thanks for any advice you can offer.