Is it possible for a last minute upgrade arline award ticket?

Question

I'm traveling from D.C. to TOkyo using an award ticket by ANA....even though the rules said that you can't upgrade your class (from econ to BUsiness) while using an award ticket, even if you are willing to pay the aditional points or money. but i was wonder if the airline make exception at the last minute? (i check the seating and business class is half empty while econ in completely PACKED)....so bottom line is do airline often broke the rules for their customer??? i've been ANA customer for 8 years now because of their quality of service...it's really disappointing and unreasonable that they won't let me change my reservation.

Answer 1

that is strictly up to the airline.  I tried on a flight to Tokyo from Los angeles and was unable to.

Answer 2

What's they said:

Validity of Upgrade Award

Once Star Alliance Upgrade Award is requested, it is valid for reserved flight only.

Changes

After reservation is confirmed, changes on passenger name, flight number, date, sector or class are not applicable.

Answer 3

You won't be able to upgrade before your flight.  However, I've had luck with day-of-departure (DOD) upgrades at the airport.  You can ask the check-in agents at the airport if you can upgrade your award ticket there for the difference in point balance.  This ends up working about 20 percent of the time as long as economy is basically sold out and business is not too crowded.

The Dulles ANA staff tend to be very helpful and friendly, so I'd say you've got a shot.  Have a nice flight =]