Thanks for the quick replies, but wow that's terrible. On Air Canada we complain that the last-minute upgrade cost too much but it's way less than the fare difference. Similarly on other Star alliance airlines such as Ethiopian. One always complains about one's own airline until you find out things aren't necessarily greener in faraway pastures. Next time I will be more careful and make sure I book SQ flights that are upgradable with star alliance upgrades so I can use air canada AEROPLAN points. I did that for my return from Singapore to Sydney, but not on the journey going out. Oh well flying economy will build character. At least I have a premium seat.