in that case, i think that typically the NC is used as a fare base for people who are going the full route of flight 917 on a 3 cabin.m In you case, since you are only doing the domestic portion, you can only clear into NF. If i were u, i would split the itinerary, give your wife the upgrade and waitlist yourself. Cos if the seats were released one by one, people with lower status but with one person on the PNR will clear. Yours will only clear if there are 2 NF available.