When to get the best upgrade deal?

naughtysmurf

Heading to the NYC for a week over New Year, flying with United, Business class on the way out, economy on the way back

There are Business Class & Premium Economy seats available on the rtn flight, economy is sold out.

Considering upgrading to Business Class for the rtn flight, when is the best time to get the best price deal, before we fly out online, call them up or at the airport when returning?

Thanks

endofrainbow

personally i wouldn't bother for BC on the return - it's only 6+ hours. If you already have EC seats, why not upgrade to PE which you can do online.

If you leave it til the airport on return, chances are flyers with status will already have been allocated these seats. Plus, walk up fares on the day will bring a tear to your eye.

If you are relying on seats maps for availability, bear in mind that a lot of seats are held back for operational purposes and for those who have not selected seats.

naughtysmurf

Thanks, would have preferred BC on rtn leg rather than outbound to maybe get a bit of kip to offset the jetlag on way back but didn't have that option, doubt if I'll sleep in EC or PE (can't usually)
Four of us traveling so BC both ways for all of us was too expensive at the time of booking