Ask, request, whatever. They can only either say no, or give alternatives. I don't see the harm. When I was a contractor in the mid-aughts, the USG switched the time threshold for Business and our clients were not pleased. We could fenagle on the contractor side with different types of tickets/using travel agents' favors, etc.

Actually flew to Australia for work as fed years ago, no upgrades unless you pay for it yourself. Also, no additional leave longer than the days you actually work. Meeting 2 days? You were only permitted to request 2 days of leave. Hardly worth the squeeze.