DaveReidUK
Very few big airlines operate such a system and I travel a lot last minute and have never had a problem with KL, AF, LH. EI did block off at times but appear to have stopped that for most part.
Anyway I waited and checked again today and they opened up more low fares and the price dropped to 240.
There were never going to get the sort of fares they had on offer, I'm fully aware of yield management etc but you also need to be realistic about how much you will get per head. 240 is better than an empty seat on offer for 500 quid.
Was close to adjusting my plans and Aer Lingus who were cheaper were no use because their last flight is at 20.45 and BA 21.15, it's not a big gap but wouldn't of made it.