i've had to pay expedite fees before, around US$30, if a booking is made within 10 days of travel.
i don't think CX can issue redemption tickets for flights within 3 hours, even ex-HKG. i was told you can get instant upgrade awards and excess baggage awards at HKG for same day travel.
i've had AA issue free tickets on CX for same day travel, but you must go to the AA office to pick up the tickets and also pay an expedite fee if you're not exec plat.
[This message has been edited by miki13331 (edited 05-09-2003).]