Ask the reservations agent, “Has revenue management released seats for upgrades? How many are left? If they haven’t released any yet, when might they begin?” The key words to drop are “revenue management. ” Most travelers don’t know this important department exists, and inquiring about it will let the reservation agent know you understand how the system works. Even if they don’t upgrade you for free or in exchange for frequent flier miles, they might still add a note to your reservation, and the gate agent may offer an upgrade at check-in.
In addition to arriving early, you’ll have a better shot at getting upgraded if you look and act in a professional manner. Wear business casual attire, and be polite to check-in agents, flight attendants, and other airline personnel. [3] X Research source
Ask the gate agent, “Are you looking for volunteers to give up their seats and take a later flight? If so, is there any chance that an upgrade to business class is possible?” Delaying your flight may be inconvenient, but if you’re not on a time crunch, it’s an easy way to get a free upgrade. Within 24 hours of your flight, log into the airline’s website with your booking info and check the flight’s booking status. If it’s overbooked, you’ll know in advance that the gate agent will be looking for economy volunteers to give up their seats.
Do your best to be sincere, and try not to come off like you’re fishing for special treatment. Say, for instance, “My spouse and I couldn’t go on our honeymoon right after our wedding, but we finally have the chance now. We’re so excited!” Even if you don’t get a seat upgrade, you might get other freebies, such as complimentary drinks.
For example, grab a flight attendant’s attention by saying, “Excuse me—I hate to complain, but my tray table appears to be broken. Is there any chance another seat is available?” You could also have a legitimate concern about another passenger. For instance, you may discreetly say, “Pardon, but I take medicine that weakens my immune system, and I’m worried that the person next to me is coughing a lot without covering their mouth. Is there any chance another seat is available?” While you might just get moved to another economy seat, you could get a free upgrade to first or business class if the flight is full.
The auction will list a minimum offer amount, but you’ll need to make a competitive bid in order to win. For instance, if a business class ticket is $1400, and your economy ticket cost $400, you’re left with a difference of $1000. You’d then bid $200 to $400 on the upgrade auction. Over 50 airlines participate in PlusGrade, which is a system that lets passengers bid on unused business and first class tickets. Typically, you can start bidding after you book your ticket up to 24 to 72 hours before the flight. There’s no guarantee that you’ll win, but it’s worth a shot. You won’t be charged anything if you lose, and you could end up scoring a 50% or 60% discount on a business class seat.
Asking the gate agent before boarding is more of a gamble, as the business cabin might be full by then. However, if you luck out, you may be able to purchase an upgrade for a fraction of what you’d ordinarily pay for a business class seat.
Additionally, you usually need to book a flight through the airline in order to be eligible to bid in an upgrade auction.
If there are fewer business travelers on the plane, you’ll have a better shot at getting upgraded. If you fly during peak hours, the business cabin will be packed and no upgrades will be available.
If an airline offers basic and premium economy classes, this means that passengers can’t upgrade to business from basic economy. Only upgrades from basic to premium economy, premium economy to business, or business to first class are allowed.
Additionally, if the airline partners with a bank or creditor, sign up for a co-branded credit card with miles rewards. Once you’ve accrued enough rewards points, you can cash them in for a free upgrade. [16] X Research source
