Originally Posted by
number_6
CX will generally let you fly if there is any unsold seat, even if there is not award space. In marked contrast to BA and QF, which won't release F or J seats for award standby unless their yield mgmt dept. OKs it (generally not unless you have Emerald+ status). Even AA won't release F or J space for award standby on some routes/flights (e.g. LAX-JFK at peak times).
Sorry for digging out such an old thread but thought it could be useful for other FTs.
My experience regarding standby is the exactly the same as described by
number_6; it did also work out with a redemption ticket issued by BA. For example last week, arrived early in SIN coming in with SQ from EWR and was booked on the 09:55 am flight to HKG in CX. After asking at the transfer counter, they got me a boarding pass for the 07:00 am CX flight. Was much appreciated!