Just got a reply from Qatar Airways regarding my complaint.
Indeed it’s a new policy.
As of 2 June 2024,
Qatar Airways upgrades at the airport cost 50% more than online upgrades.
The email below:
Dear Mr. Tjokrosaputro,
I hope this message finds you well. Thank you for reaching out to us regarding your recent experience at our reception area and for bringing the issue of the upgrade charges discrepancy to our attention.
Upon reviewing the report, I understand that you approached our reception seeking assistance for an upgrade. Our staff, welcomed and assisted you. During the process, it was identified that the upgrade on departure required 94,500 Avios, as per our system. However, you pointed out that the Avios points displayed on your app calculator were 63,000, leading to a notable discrepancy.
Our staff explained that there is a difference in pricing between online upgrades and upgrades on departure. I understand that this explanation did not meet your satisfaction, and you were understandably unhappy with the policy difference in charges.
Ultimately, you chose to use your Qcredits to proceed with the upgrade. The upgrade process was successfully initiated, and you boarded your flight on time.
We genuinely regret any inconvenience this situation may have caused you. Your feedback is invaluable to us.
Thank you for your continued support and for choosing Qatar Airways.
I then pushed for explanation that the policy isn’t listed anywhere on the website. The reply:
Dear Mr. Tjokrosaputro,
Hope this email finds you well.
This policy is applicable since 02 June 2024.
Upgrades using Qcredits remain the same, unlike Avios.
Just to keep in mind to all those who want to upgrade.
Such a shame.