Blocked first class seat question
 

The United app seems to always show first class seats “blocked.” Are these seats actually blocked or for whatever reason blocked from booking. Seems odd when economy cabins are sold full.

From what I understand, it’s assurances the computer makes. Last minute travelers airquotes Historically end air quotes are business travelers. The computer knows the company makes more money on a business class ticket since it can charge more for the seat last-minute and usually be more profitable. If no one buys it, then it rolls to the upgrade list from there nearer and nearer to departure. If still there are empty UF seats, the highest fare paid in economy will be upgraded and so on.

Edit: occasionally you’ll see this on W/B restricted cabins or LH INTL flights where the crew sleeps in the cabin.