Qantas touting for cash upgrades at gate?

Last week, missB syd-hkg on hong Kong Airlines was offered j for $900 at check-in. Not sure why she texted me that , but to be clear I replied "suck it up princess". Got the "fine then" text reply 🤣
Not a bad price! I think it was about $600 for the reverse? Which would be worthwhile for the overnight flight back. But i think it’s strictly economy class catering if you upgrade that way.
 
Not a bad price! I think it was about $600 for the reverse? Which would be worthwhile for the overnight flight back. But i think it’s strictly economy class catering if you upgrade that way.
I might have to shout her $600 if it comes up, I've never flown HKAirlines (actually had never heard of them before), but for a lie flat seat overnight, 👍
 
I really hope this is only being offered after all points upgrades are confirmed, but given I've had more unsuccessful points upgrades than successful ones, and seeing that they're so actively promoting cash upgrades, I wonder if they are now keeping some seats excluded from points upgrade to make them available for these cash upgrades?
 
This is definitely new, although in the past they were offered in code-share situations.
So, for example, on SCL-SYD, LATAM would offer paid upgrades until departure.
This wasn't offered SYD-SCL.
I remember because while it was relatively easy to get into business on staff travel for SYD-SCL, it was basically impossible for SCL-SYD.
Twice on SCL-SYD I was allocated a seat in J only to lose it at the airport due to a last minute cash upgrade, and be downgraded to PE.
I was particularly bitter when I managed to snag 1A - an old first class seat - on the 747 only to lose it at the last minute.
If this becomes the norm it will make it all but impossible for staff to ever travel in business class.
 
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