Load Factor
 

Dear FlyerTalk,

I just tried to figure out the load factor my upcoming flights and I am having some trouble. Hope someone out there in DL FT land can help me out.

I am flying on 3/28 on DL 2284 from (fare V)SMF - SLC; then 1028 for (fare T) SLC - EWR. I am a DL Plat. I have been upgraded for the SMF - SLC but wondering what the status is for the SLC -EWR leg. Also, I am flying with my father and will give him my 1st class upgrade for at least the first leg.

Should I reroute using a SDC to go a different way to get a better chance of upgrades for both legs? Should I fly at an earlier time vs the time for 2284? Is their a route from SMF where I could fly and get the companion upgrade too? I mean a route that would have better odds than the route I am taking? What does FT think? Thank you for the advice.

Best,
Z

What you're looking for can be found in an ExpertFlyer subscription. One of their tools is the ability to look at upgrade space on DL flights by going to the Award/Upgrade search tool, plugging in the route and date, and searching for V (or X, if on an international flight number) inventory. They offer a free 5-day subscription so you can try it out and look at your upcoming flights.

If you try to SDC to score an upgrade, you will need to look at the loads the day of the flight, which can change dramatically during the course of the day. Also realize that time of ticketing is the tie breaker when there are multiple upgraders in your status/fare class. SDCing forces a reticket, which moves you to the back of the line.