Originally Posted by chiproos

Hate to rehash but I have to question how accurate UAL's inventory control program is.

Back in July I wanted to book STL-ORD-HKG rt flying on UAL #895 on 9/12 and returning on UAL #896 on 9/19. I've flown this route 2-3 times per year for many years.

When I called to try to use mileage to upgrade my economy seat, I was told that there were no upgrade seats available (there were only 4 business class seats sold at that time) however if I would be willing to pay an additional $800 to reach the "upgradable" fare, they would waitlist me....of course if the upgrade didn't go through I would receive no refund.

So I temporarily fired UAL and booked my trip through NRT on AA who confirmed my upgrades both ways with no additional fare required.

I checked today and UAL #895 ORD-HKG on 9/12 has 25 out of 73 business class seats open and #896 HKG-ORD on 9/19 still has 23 business seats open. I am fully aware of how the game is played and also know that some of these seats will fill for 1K's ect. But I do think UAL should consider perhaps increasing the number of mileage award business class seats available as in this case, it looks like there will be a fair number of empty seats in business.

The end result is that I think I will lost my status with UAL if I fly AA this trip and the next trip to Asia...which further means I won't be coming back. Curious as to anyone's comments. Thanks!