Is the automatic Y class upgrade based on V availability?
 

Simple enough question -- is the automatic Y class upgrade available only if V is available? Or does it work based on F availability? Furthermore, is it pure Y class only or various types of Y (I think I'm in YA00A0VN) or something close to that)?

The complimentary upgrade from Y at time of ticketing comes from the V bucket (or X if Business).

I'm not aware of any restriction on the specific Y fare class.

So, I think the follow-up to your original question is...

Yes, what you are thinking is correct. If you are booked in "Y" and not immediately upgraded, that means the advanced upgrade fare class (either V or X depending on the flight) is 0 and you'll likely have to wait and see how you stand at the airport.

I do believe, however, that as a Y passenger, you'll be very high on the list regardless of your medallion status... Someone might want to verify that.

correct ...
 

no, based on my knowledge of the system, that is all correct ...

it comes from the V/X bucket, and Y places you near the top for airport upgrade list.

All correct. Just remember that with DL, "Y" fare upgrade requests are not classified by elite status but rather by request time. So if a lower level elite purchased a "Y" fare before you, they will be listed at a higher priority on the upgrade standby list.

-RM

very true ... but ...
 

very true -- but also keep in mind that once you reach the airport, all bets are off and the time of purchase doesn't really matter and it's all SkyMiles Status + Fare Class

Good to know; thanks all for the replies.

My guess as to why the upgrade hasn't cleared is because it's a Vegas flight on a Sunday evening. From what I understand the airlines rarely release upgrade availability on the LAS flights (especially on Fridays/Sundays) till the last minute due to the much higher percentage of purchased F fares. And I'm sure that the fact that it's going to DTW doesn't help either...