Originally Posted by
FXEpilot77
Never really thought about this before, but in theory it should be possible for the EXP desk to do this. I've changed flights within the airport control window via the EXP desk (changeable fare, so no point in doing standby or confirmed standby when I can re-ticket for free). I've also purchased a ticket less than 2 hours before departure as well. The one thing the EXP desk can't do is seat assignments within that window, or sticker upgrades. However, SWUs require reissuing the ticket anyway. My bet would be that they could process the upgrade and re-issue the ticket, but you'd be in C inventory with no seat assignment. Not sure if they would do it, but it seems possible given the unique way that SWUs are processed.
Has anyone ever tried that?
Not at PVG, but LAX. I've cleared SWUs at the gate with the EXP desk before. However, when I went to the AC because the flight was delayed, the agents there took another 10 or so minutes doing something and mumbling. I never found out what that was about, and I wasn't sure if she was mad that she was missing her lunch break.