Originally Posted by
gozetta
Well this is news. Perhaps I need to read more on this forum, but then I ask, what is the point of the "Airport Upgrade Standby List" if there is no difference between that and the "SWU/Mileage ranking List?"
They are two entirely different things.
The "airport upgrade standby list" is for upgrades to X or R booking classes using e-upgrades or complimentary upgrades if EXP or traveling on Y/B fares.
The SWU/eVIP/mileage upgrade standby list is for upgrades to A or C booking classes using eVIPs or mileage awards.
The former (X/R) upgrades are much easier to process because no reticketing is needed. The latter (A/C) upgrades require reticketing and an incredible amount of typing into Sabre. Most domestic airport agents will not even consider processing eVIP/mileage upgrades once a flight is within an hour or so of boarding, just because too much setup work is involved to make it happen.
Overseas (European, Asian, South American station) agents might be more willing, as the ONLY way to upgrade their flights is using eVIPs/mileage+copay or corporate travel upgrade certs that similarly require reissue.