The Best Time to Ask for a Flight Upgrade, According to Flight Attendants (2024)

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The Best Time to Ask for a Flight Upgrade, According to Flight Attendants? ›

The flight attendants told the outlet that upgrade requests can be made any time between booking the flight and boarding, though they advised that travelers ask as early in the process as possible. Passengers can inquire about paid upgrades — using either cash or accrued miles — with the airline at the time of booking.

"You should ask prior to door closure, but don't be surprised if they don't move you until after you're in the air if they're going to grant your request." Fogwell added that you're more likely to score a (paid) upgrade to an economy-plus seat than you are to first or business class.

"You should ask the lead flight attendant or the flight attendant at the boarding door," said Bobby Laurie, a travel expert and former American Airlines flight attendant.

When you check in, say to the agent: "If you are upgrading passengers on this flight, I would like to be considered." Be sure to smile. Many of the people gate agents deal with are complaining; you'll stand out if you're friendly and polite.

Because their first concern is safety, what flight attendants notice about you has much to do with your ability to keep yourself and others safe. They'll make a mental note of passengers who are in good shape and who can help lift heavy items and lend a hand if necessary.

NEW YORK (AP) — Ever wonder how airlines decide who gets a seat upgrade on flights? Airlines say it's strictly by the book: Loyal customers are rewarded based on their status in frequent flyer programs. But some flyers insist that once in a while, they get upgraded even when they've bought the cheapest seat.

You should probably ask a flight attendant, because your ability to change seats is really at their discretion. They might even allow one of those better seats! You're still not going to be able to just move up to business or first class, though, sorry.

Checking in early increases your chances of getting an upgrade from admin staff if the flight's overbooked. If they know you intend to travel they can upgrade you in advance, so they won't need to shuffle around the upgrades at the airport. It also means if you don't get an upgrade, it's easier to choose the best seat.

Checking in and choosing a Coach seat will not prevent you from being upgraded. The worst thing that can happen is you may be told no. It never hurts to ask, and on some airlines agents hold a bit of discretion to upgrade passengers.

Do airlines actually give free upgrades? ›

Earn airline elite status

The most reliable way of getting upgraded for free is to have elite status on the airline you're flying. Most airlines reward their most frequent flyers with complimentary upgrades on domestic routes.

“You can increase your chance of an upgrade by informing the front desk of a special occasion, anniversary, or birthday — and by being sincere and kind to the front desk staff,” he says. However, never take advantage of your accommodations by fabricating a celebration.

“The aim is to keep the body in a rigid pose, so that if there was any impact from an unplanned emergency, the body is damaged less," she continued. “This keeps body movement restricted so that there is less chance of injury if there was an impact."

Engaging in conversation: If a flight attendant initiates or engages in casual conversations with you beyond standard service interactions, it could indicate interest. Frequent eye contact: Maintaining eye contact and smiling during interactions may suggest a positive attitude.

Parikh also says that flight attendants take notice of strong, able-bodied passengers who may be able to help in the event of an emergency and whether you're reading a medical journal, so they know who to approach for First Aid.

The cheapest way to get a business or first-class ticket is to buy an economy ticket then buy an upgrade. You can either do this immediately after booking or look for last-minute upgrades as your travel date approaches. The price for premium cabin fares decreases as you get closer to departure.

Checking in early increases your chances of getting an upgrade from admin staff if the flight's overbooked. If they know you intend to travel they can upgrade you in advance, so they won't need to shuffle around the upgrades at the airport. It also means if you don't get an upgrade, it's easier to choose the best seat.

Don't: Be afraid to ask for an upgrade when you check in. Checking with the staff when you arrive allows them to make a decision based on their current occupancy. “When hotels are quiet, and there isn't a lot going on, you'll have a decent chance of getting an upgrade if you ask nicely on arrival,” says Heinz.

If luxury and extra legroom is really important to you, book it in advance. However, if you're perfectly willing to fly economy class, and willing to roll the dice, a last-minute upgrade can be the cheapest option. You may even get lucky and score a free upgrade.