Does anyone know if SAA offers the opportunity to purchase discounted surplus Biz Class seats at check-in or at the gate on day of departure? I'm flying IAD-JNB/JNB-JFK in July and I wouldn't permit my husband to book the Biz Class at reservation (couldn't justify the prices since I have flown SAA 6x to JNB and have fine memories). Now I am wondering if it's worth listening to him complain the entire 16 hours.

I would be willing to pay for the upgrade... just not the full price at $5k each. There are currently loads of seats that are available in Biz.

Also, I know that I am to check into IAD 3 hours before departure... anyone know what's the best arrival time to get the best chances to purchase such upgrade, assuming its available?