Adding my data point from this morning MNL-HKG:

Originally booked on CX 906 in Economy Light (N class) for 10.45 scheduled departure. I showed up to the landside counter at ~7.10 and enquired if I could be switched to CX 912 (scheduled departure at 8) -- refused by check-in agents as CX 912 flight was closed and I "didn't have enough time to reticket or pay". I checked in for CX 906 and proceeded to clear immigration & security, and happened to walk by the CX 912 gate which was boarding. Took a chance and asked the gate agents if I could switch over to the flight (and mentioned I didn't have check in luggage) -- a few minutes later I was given a bulkhead row boarding pass for CX 912. No fuss whatsoever; I am OWE but I doubt it played any role.

Separately, there was some sort of celebrity (I am guessing a rapper) in Business -- many locals were trying to take photos of him!