Originally Posted by
GigoloArt
In general, regular check-in agents do not have the power to upgrade anyone, particularly in DXB where there is an operations desk in the back office. This enforced policy is obviously to avoid any "deals" agents could make with pax, think about airports like LOS or ACC where agents are not EK contracted.
After flying some years with EK I do not see any further op-up pattern than:
- Y (or C) oversold (which is the main main main condition to be happen)
- Status (and then within each level, I am not sure if they consider current tier miles)
These are the two main drivers. People say that pax with "special meals" are considered to be last because their desired meal might not be loaded for the premium cabins.
I also would like to know if showing up at check-in early or late helps ...
I can agree with this mostly.
Showing up early at check-in and especially knowing there are flights they can rebook you available is a big plus when you know the flight is oversold, simply go to the check-in agent, tell him friendly "I know the flight is oversold, you're probably looking for volunteers to take a later/different flight" - this has helped me with Emirates the best, though never in DXB but at outside stations while check-in to DXB. Or, but I never had with with EK, they'll up-op you on the same flight.(As they'll mark you with "has volenteered to take later flight", and get you a new C BP at boarding because of this, when the agents are looking whom to upgrade because overbooking... yes, had such smart agents!) At least the "take another flight and fly a service class higher" seems to work with low states as well. Op-Up probably better chance as Gold. But if you catch the right check-in guy/girl and they're indeed overbooked, then they might have allowance to decide whom to upgrade (Again, that's a hit or miss - be friendly and looking decent (not overdressed) might give you a better chance, but it can be very well they'll not care at all and just upgrade by throwing a dice...)