Upgrades using miles

I was told by the FC helpline that even when upgrades in exchange for FC miles may not be available in advance for some flights asking at the airport on the day of departure can more often show some available.

I've done that a few times now from NY to UK. Upgrading an S class ticket to Upper.

I tried yesterday for the VS046 and was told yes it's an S class ticket, but as it's an IT fare (via the company tarvel agent) it can't be upgraded using miles.

The FC helpline told me it could be if there were available upgrade seats released.

does anyone know which is right? The ticket was still showing an S class. I have bought tickets in the same way in the past and been able to upgrade.

Anecdotal evidence suggests once you get to T-24, and control of the flight's handed from Crawley Towers over to the airport ground staff, anything is possible.

If they've still got UC seats to fill, and particularly if Y & PE are busy, they'll more than likely do you a deal at the airport. But don't count on it.

[Neil]

There is more than one type of S fare ticket. A full fare S that you buy through the website etc is available for upgrades with miles, many 'special' S fares, like through corporate travel company schemes are not, it all depends on what has been agreed.