How to Upgrade Your Ticket

It is possible to find a competitively priced air ticket if you search diligently, but getting an upgrade can be more complicated. Most airlines operate up to four classes of service, from economy to first class. Upgrading normally entails moving up one level. While it is not guaranteed, there are certain things you can do to position yourself for an upgrade when seats are available.

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Airline contact details
• Credit card
• Frequent Flyer membership number

S

1. • 1
     Join a frequent flier program operated by the airline that is most convenient for you. Build up miles and points by flying with this carrier as often as possible, in order to achieve premier status and build brand loyalty with the airline. This is one of the surest routes to an upgrade.
   • 2
     Use a credit card that allows you to earn miles for purchases. Charge the credit card to rack up the miles every time you make an eligible purchase, usually one mile for every dollar spent. Make sure that the card is linked to your airline's frequent flier program.
   • 3
     Choose the right time to fly. The chances of getting an upgrade are greater when the economy section is full, so flights during school holidays and other busy periods can be a good bet. Select the first flight in the morning and check in early to boost your chances of getting an upgrade.
   • 4
     Trade accumulated miles in your frequent flier account for an upgrade if you have enough miles to spare. Alternatively, check for available upgrades when booking a flight or at check-in and pay for the upgrade. The price of an upgrade can be surprisingly affordable and free upgrades are not a sure thing.
   • 5
     Buy a full-price ticket in the economy section if you can’t buy an upgrade or don’t have enough frequent flier miles to trade in. Sometimes full-price tickets are the only option on short notice and airlines give customers with full-price tickets priority when upgrades are available.

Tips & Warnings

• Free upgrades are hard to come by, but sometimes airlines are looking for people to move in order to accommodate passengers with special needs. Comply if the airline asks you to move; you may be upgraded.
• By the same token, if you have a genuine problem with something in your seating area, politely point it out to the nearest flight attendant. If there is no spare space in your section, you could be bumped up.
• Dress appropriately and always be courteous and polite, bearing in mind that airlines are not obliged to upgrade anyone for free.
• A deeply discounted, nonrefundable ticket can disqualify you from acquiring an upgrade.
• Avoid ordering special meals. If the higher class does not have your chosen meal, you may be overlooked for an upgrade.