The premium cabins are often a haven of comfort and pampering, making a huge difference to a lengthy flight. How can you get an upgrade for a flight or flight ticket? A ticket in a premium cabin can cost more than one month’s pay for many people. How can you get an upgrade if you’re not a corporate boss entitled to travel in business class ? I’ll share a few guidelines. However, please note that airline upgrade policies can vary greatly. Some airlines are notoriously strict with upgrades while others are more generous. Each airline has its own matrix of internal AirGuide.

How to upgrade your flight

Choose Your Route:

Overbooking in economy class is almost always the reason for an upgrade. Overselling is a common practice by airlines in the hope that some passengers won’t show up. On some days, however, all passengers show up and the airlines are forced to upgrade to economy class due to the lack of space. You are more likely to get an upgrade if you’re a frequent flyer. Flights to Goa in peak season, when they’re usually packed with families on vacation, are less likely to be overbooked than Mumbai-Delhi, where the majority of passengers are frequent-fliers with top-tier status. Upgrades are less common on long-distance flights due to the higher capacity of overbooked flights. However, weekends and holidays can offer some chances.

Choose your airline:

It’s my experience that North American airlines upgrade their frequent flyers. Gulf carriers are more generous. I have only been upgraded once despite flying over 1,000 miles with an Asian airline and having their highest passenger status. It’s a combination of strong capacity control and a belief in protecting premium class revenue.

Loyalty is rewarded, and so is a ticket with a higher price.

When an upgrade becomes available, regular fliers are given priority. Passengers who purchased a higher priced ticket have a greater chance of receiving an upgrade. Normaly, the cheapest tickets are identified by the N and Q fare code. Then, the M, E and B class codes are used to identify full-fare economy fares.

Be accommodating :

Airlines often ask volunteers to volunteer for a later flight when a flight has been overbooked in exchange for compensation. You’ll be more likely to get a bump up if you take a later flight.

Take a look at the part:

If you are traveling in business casual, wear a suit. You are more likely get an upgrade if you dress like you belong in business class.

Travel alone:

The airline will find it easier to upgrade one passenger than two, three or four. Book separate itineraries even if you’re travelling with someone else. This will increase your chances of getting an upgrade.

Ask politely and nicely.

A simple polite request has resulted in an upgrade for many passengers. Do not shout at everyone. Always treat staff with the same respect that you would expect. Smile, greet, be polite, ask for what you want, and thank them regardless of the result. When I was traveling with my son on a Gulf carrier from New York Bengaluru, I noticed that the flight was packed. I discreetly asked the agent at check-in if an upgrade was possible. He replied that he’d keep an eye on it. I responded, “Thanks so much, sir.” You are very kind. I appreciate everything you do. As soon as the announcement of boarding was made, I was contacted and given the boarding cards for the two last business class seats.

Know someone who works at an airline or is a VIP:

Some corporations who sign large business agreements with airline companies receive a certain amount of upgrade vouchers. They are usually reserved for company heads, but it’s not a bad idea to try and get an upgrade voucher from them. Although we’re all sick of the “VIP Culture”, airlines still maintain a list of VIPs who are eligible for an upgrade. These could be government officials, business leaders, journalists and people from the travel, hospitality and aviation industries. Check for the OSI (Other Important Info) field when making your booking to ensure you are on this list. Ask your friend who is a flight attendant for tips, and ask if they will put you on their SFU (Suitable for Upgrade) list.

Relax and enjoy your upgrade:

You do not need to complete any formalities after receiving your upgrade. Your boarding pass will be updated with your new seat assignment. The seating configuration of the aircraft is also changed to reflect the upgrade. All systems, including those of the airline, the check-in system and the onboard systems, are synchronised. Cabin crew are also informed of your upgrade, so that you can enjoy all the upgraded amenities such as enhanced meal options. The miles or points you earn based on upgraded service are also reflected in your frequent flyer account.