Air New Zealand Air Points - Cash Upgrade LAX-LHR???

Hi

After a rather prosperous game of miniature golf, I am looking to see if I can upgrade the return portion of two economy tickets (LAX-LHR).

So, my questions are, is it possible to upgrade just the return section, how would one do it (if it is) and how much is it likely to cost?

If I can't do it or it is outrageously expensive, will have to collect my prize somehow else... :)

Boo

Probably be the difference in fares.

FYI a standby upgrade one-way LHR-LAX costs 400 NZ currency airpoints dollars each.

FYI a standby upgrade one-way LHR-LAX costs 400 NZ currency airpoints dollars each.

That sounds good - how do you try to get one of these? Ask at check-in or the gate?

Thanks,
Boo

Airpoints upgrades must be requested in advance using Airpoints service centre or online.

I'm guessing you arent an Airpoints member, but it may give a guide in how much you may want to offer to pay for upgrade at check-in.

Ah, I see, didn't read the "airpoints" bit in your original reply - optimism obviously outweighed reading ability... ;)

So, you are saying it is unlikely that we will be able to upgrade with straight cash at the airport. You are correct, I am not a NZ Airpoints member (although am a BMI member - only the basic level).

Thanks for the advice :). If anyone else has any experiences on this matter, would also be interested to hear.

Boo

I remember that there was a published offer to upgrade a segment of a longhual flight but cannot remember the details.

There is an option to upgrade economy tickets purchased in the UK for £465 per segment - or at least there was, not sure if this is still available. Best thing to do is ring AirNZ reservations (and find someone who knows or knew about the £465 option, not everyone seemed to when I did it). It's a bit steep though, I'd say the LHR-LAX segment is worth it, but the return isn't as the flight is often under 10 hours.

Cheers, Zac

In case anyone else is interested in this question being answered...

...when I asked at the airport (unfortunately one of the most unfriendly male check-in agents I have experienced... :( ), I got the reply "about $3000 (US)". I should have pushed for an actual price - since I get the feeling he was trying to blanketly put me off rather than be helpful.

(since my husband had set a limit of £750 - about $1400 (US) - per person, we declined)

Nevermind, am working on flights to Las Vegas next month - hopefully will find a good business class deal.

This was my first trip (LHR-LAX-LHR) on NZ. Was interesting: thought that the catering was VERY good (too hot meals in both directions? BA - pull your socks up in New Club World!), but found the seat very uncomfortable and really missed personal TVs in economy... The cabin crew service was REALLY excellent - great crews both ways (workd really hard)

Boo

NZ has very good food, wine and service in Biz ^ but the seat is a big :td: and the middle seat for Biz is a double :td: :td:

The upgrade offer can be found on the UK website:
http://www.airnewzealand.co.uk/airfares_offers/selected_offers/sectorupgrade.htm

It is also valid for tix from other European countries, although it is not on the respective websites. Travel agents or Air NZ reservations should be able to assist.

Remember: some special fares / lowest booking classes can be excluded from the sector upgrade program, depending on the country.

T and C to ex UK upgrade offer:


Sector upgrades into Business Class are permitted in conjunction with selected Economy Class Air New Zealand fares sold to New Zealand, Australia or the Pacific Islands.

I dont think LHR-LAX RT only, fits the conditions.

Finally if you are considering Business class ex UK to LAS consider BMI Premium Y Class from MAN. Around GBP950 RT. www.airline-network.co.uk