VA Operational Upgrades - do they happen often and why was I lucky?

6 replies

Jorge_fly

Virgin Australia - Velocity Rewards

Member since 08 Feb 2016

Total posts 83

VA platinum upgraded to J through points from Mel- Hkg. Upon arriving into HK, I called up the customer service centre to see if there were any upgrade opportunities (points or paid upgrades). The agent told me no seats are available through points or paid. The cabin the 100%. 


Knowing that I will be flying back in economy, I was pleasantly surprised when I got an op up at the gate. There were 6 new J class boarding passes at the gate. I was prepared to pay for an upgrade but an op up is the sweetest. 

Pardon my ignorance, I am just curious to know what happened to the cabin being 100% full10 days out to being able to offer 6 op ups at the gate? I am very grateful, don't get me wrong.  Has this happened to people often? 

Grannular

Member since 31 Mar 2014

Total posts 283

6 people either didn't check in, or changed their flights

MRYJDrake

Air New Zealand - Airpoints

Member since 31 Oct 2016

Total posts 206

Based on the number and that they're all in the same class, probably a group booking that bailed or changed last minute as Grannular suggested.

Skippybear

Member since 03 Mar 2012

Total posts 5

I find VA's upgrades are very hit and miss. I bid for an upgrade SYD/DPS using points. Never heard a thing. I enquired at check-in and also at the gate. The flight left with empty J seats. Not impressed as a Gold Member.

qickdraw

Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer

Member since 14 Dec 2015

Total posts 7

I find VA's upgrades are very hit and miss. I bid for an upgrade SYD/DPS using points. Never heard a thing. I enquired at check-in and also at the gate. The flight left with empty J seats. Not impressed as a Gold Member.
Yep, this happens waaaay too often, especially considering the 'great' bid upgrade system they have in place :-)
 

Doubleplatinum Banned

Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer Platinum

Member since 07 Feb 2013

Total posts 431

I find VA's upgrades are very hit and miss. I bid for an upgrade SYD/DPS using points. Never heard a thing. I enquired at check-in and also at the gate. The flight left with empty J seats. Not impressed as a Gold Member.
Because gold with virgin is so difficult to attain?

leahcimabi

Virgin Australia - Velocity Rewards

Member since 08 Jul 2017

Total posts 29

Because gold with virgin is so difficult to attain?

Picture me holding up a "sarcasm" sign. 

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