My partner used RPU and the upgrade was confirmed.
He canceled the entire reservation before the trip started, but he didn't get the RPU back into his MP account.
He emailed 1Kvoice, but he was told he already used it and UA couldn't return it.
Is that true even he canceled the reservation and didn't even fly???

No, a canceled ticket should automatically return the RPU. Call and talk to someone else.

1K newbie with GPU questions
 

I have recently reached 1K status for the first time. I have booked the following trip for mid Jan where I have used my GPU upgrades for the first time:

DFW - DEN
DEN- NRT
NRT - SIN

SIN - HKG
HKG - SFO
SFO - DFW

All are in W class. I used 2 GPUs for the outbound and return. Both the domestic routes were upgraded immediately, but the routes I care about I am waitlisted on.

I know it's still 5 weeks out so there's time, but is there anything I should do? I have heard about checking for R space, but I can't seem to find it. I know a waitlist can clear at any time but what is typical?

Any help is much appreciated.
Thanks

Clearing upgrades with this type of instrument can be difficult on some routes. It may not clear until just before boarding or not at all. The W fares are a bit of a lottery. You pay more hoping you can upgrade but you don't get any $ back other than your GPU if you don't clear.

I would suggest calling the 1K desk to help. It is generally faster for them to find flights with R availability vs you looking. Hopefully you're within 24 hours of purchasing your ticket and then you can change/cancel for free if they help you find a seat you can confirm now.

Are you still within 24 hours of ticketing? DEN-NRT is a very challenging upgrade. Your chances are much better through SEA or SFO. HKG-SFO can be very difficult as well, depending on day of the week (Mon-Thurs may be possible, Fri-Sun very very hard).

Thanks guys, unfortunately I am stuck with this scenario unless I want to pay a change fee. Good tips for next time I book though.

I am flying HKG SFO on a Sat :( so that may be tough

I will just monitor this and try and call the 1K number to see if they can push it through if R is available

It's unlikely (though possible) that you will see R prior to T-24. The waitlist seems to work reasonably well up to that point.

New Years Day CPU or RPU?
 

Looking at flying IAD-LAX on New Years Day. Should I risk CPU or use RPU (if possible)?

My first flight as at 5:20 AM and the second one connects through ORD, departing LAX at 11:50 PM. I feel like these are off peak times. Any ideas/suggestions?

TY

New Year's Day can be a good day to travel and the earlier flight will help but it depends more on your United status (assuming you are at least a Platinum because of the RPU...). I would check through the Expert mode and see how many seats are available on the United website to gauge your chances.

I'll be Platinum in a week. :)

Are you saying my chances of CPU are good and not to use an RPU or that my chances are good of an RPU going through?

Thanks!

Also, is it possible that a same day roundtrip flight, I can use only one RPU or will I need to use 2, or 3 (3 segments?)?

I haven't had access to this type of stuff since the death of the e500.

I have usually been waitlisted for the longer TPAC flights, but typically clear 3-4 days before departure when additional 'R' space opens. If you don't clear the longer route, you can get your GPU back

It is pure speculation unless you tell us the specific flights and/or tell us what the current loads are. Even then, it can be very difficult to make an accurate prediction.

Congratulations on the new Platinum status. You will need to check your specific flights (expert mode on United's website) to look at the potential availability. My experience in previous years is not necessarily a good guide for this year.

Thanks for your offer of assistance! Again, I appreciate your advice. ^

I'm on:

UA208
UA1221
UA600

TY!