#12a Upgrade requests published on a upgrade list. The upgrade list is autogenerated as the flights is sold. The relative position on the list depends on time of booking, fare paid, status etc. The passenger's relative position on the upgrade list is visible to that passenger as well as the total number on the list.
Upgrades are processed once boarding commences and only at the gate. If not at the gate to receive the new boarding pass it is immediately given to the next person
#12b Similarly there is a standby list. It is not possible to buy multiple full fare tickets for same day departure. After the first full fare confirmed booking, subsequent purchases can only be onto the standby list. Standby processing also commences when boarding commences - also at the gate. If not at the gate to receive the boarding pass, it will be given to the next passenger on the list. Passengers can be added to the list at anytime up until the flight is closed.
#12c Upgrades cannot trump standby as standby are a seat purchase. Upgrades already have a seat.
#12d Upgrades and Standby success cannot be reversed. Airlines may want to hold one or two seats in reserve until the last moment in case pilots or crew have an last minute requirement.
This solves:
Lounge congestion - get people to gates when boarding commences
Assists with the oversold conundrum
Increases visibility of upgrade or standby potential to passengers. Passengers can see their upgrade potential and see where they sit relative to other passengers - they can opt to chase status to increase their potential. Road warrior types can see what their chances are on particular flights WRT standby
Qantas needs to be less beholden to certain groups of passengers and really be an airline to all passengers.
