Did you know that many of the people sitting in first class did not pay the full price of their ticket? In fact, some relax in first class with a free upgrade from the coach. How did this happen? How can you get an upgrade to first class?
1 – Pay for an upgrade
When it comes to paying for an upgrade, you have two options. Most airlines allow travelers to upgrade to first class on their website. If you’re monitoring your flight and know that first class is filling up fast, you may want to upgrade your seats early. You can usually do this on the airline’s reservation website or over the phone with a representative. You can also upgrade at the airport ticket counter. When you sign up, ask if there are any first-class upgrades available for sale. If there are, buy an upgrade. They are usually cheaper at the airport and at the last minute.
When it comes to paying for your upgrade to first class, you have two options. You can pay in the traditional way with a credit or debit card. If you are an avid traveler and have accumulated frequent flyer miles, use them to pay the difference. While it seems like a hassle, it saves more money than simply using your miles to buy a first class seat.
2 – Request an update
Whether you want to pay for a first-class upgrade or not, just ask. It all depends on how you ask, to whom and when. If you ask the airline representatives at the check-in counter, you will likely have to pay for your first class ticket. These people specialize in making and changing reservations. If you want a free upgrade to first class, wait until you’re inside airport security. This group of airline workers take your tickets. Before you board your flight, just ask if there are any extra seats available in first class. If there are, you can get a free first-class upgrade.
3 – Be kind
When it comes to requesting a first-class upgrade, whether you pay for it or want it for free, be courteous. You must be on your best behavior. Even if first class seats are available, flight attendants are under no obligation to provide upgrades, especially free ones. The key is to be polite. Right now, most airlines have low approval ratings. Customers are upset with long lines, airport security, rules and restrictions, and high airfares. Many take their anger and frustration out on flight attendants and ticker counter representatives. Being courteous not only puts a smile on your face, it can also get you an upgrade.
4 – Volunteer
This approach is hit or miss, but there are times when flight attendants must spread weight across a plane to balance it. This is a security issue. On small first class flights, this may result in coach passengers being upgraded to first class free of charge. Often times, flight attendants ask for volunteers or look for solo passengers. If this happens on your flight, be one of the first to volunteer. Since you’re doing the flight attendants a favor by volunteering to transfer, you get a free upgrade to first class.
5 – Getting hit
Most of the time, getting kicked off a flight is an air traveler’s worst nightmare. Not everyone travels to relax or see friends and family. Many travelers have a strict deadline. These people may fly to attend an important business meeting, see a sick relative, or attend a special event. If you’re traveling just because, offer to be the person kicked off an overbooked flight. That said, it indicates that you want something in return. That’s a free upgrade to first class. Most flight attendants and ticket counter representatives will be quick to accept your offer.