I missed my flight and they put me on the next one. I didn't have a seat assignment on the full flight, only a seat request, but got an upgrade anyway at the gate (so for anybody who thinks Diamond status isn't worth it, think again). I lost my upgrade on the second flight, too, and am hoping to get an upgrade on my new flight, which I also only have a seat request card for. I can't see the upgrade list because DL website is telling me I'm not checked in (even though I'm in flight using gogo to type this). There is a check in button. it is taunting and teasing me. I am feeling a compulsion to click on it so I can see where I am on the upgrade list. What will happen if I do? Is this one of those things where it will screw up my whole reservation or will it just do nothing (since I'm already checked in and in flight on my first segment) and let me see the list?

I think in this case the "check-in" button is mapped into the "eject" button and you will be out the window.

Seriously, I would check in. Far more likely to fix an issue that break anything. Sounds like they just re-booked you as if you had a stopover and really are not checked in for that flight.

If you do not elect to check in, go to the gate when you land and checkin, or prepare to lose the flight.

Had the same issues when doing MR's in Dec from JFK-SFO-JFK with a 25m turn in SFO to make the SDC earlier flight. It worked and I got the upgrade.

You won't be able to check in until your plane lands and shows in the Delta system as "arrived" (albeit, still taxi-ing to the gate). Best thing to do is have your phone VERY handy and turn it on as soon as you are allowed. @:-)

Call SMS and get them to get you a seat assignment, if possible. Also make sure that your upgrade has actually been requested. Depending on your connection, the GA at your next flight may have started processing upgrades for confirmed passengers.

SMS should be able to confirm that the upgrade has been requested and tell you where you are on the list and your "chances." If they get you a seat assignment, go directly to the GA at your next gate and ask about your upgrade. They may have already processed them or they may be getting ready to depending on your connection.

Good luck and safe travels!

Thanks for the advice!

Update: We started landing so I just waited until we were on the ground. I tried to check in using my phone but it did nothing except keep giving me a blank page with a Delta home link on it. I went to the SkyClub and they told me that I need to wait an hour and check back for a seat assignment (coach is completely full) but that there are 4 open seats in first, I am definitely on the upgrade list, and am currently number 2. So, things are looking pretty good.