I found some availability online earlier flying DUB-LHR-KUL on MH in their "First" using Avios. I phoned to query as to whether there was the same availability ex BHD or just LHR for my parents. When I called, the agent couldn't find availability on any of the three routings (including DUB that I saw online). I was told that it could be because it was 'ghost / phantom' availability from a partner airline.

I went ahead and booked this to try it out at 150k Avios and £35 and it was ticketed and went through fine*. Is it common that availability online differs from what telephone agents may be able to locate?

* I have since cancelled as I don't feel this represented great value for the use of Avios