Tips to Getting the Best Flight Upgrade

Wanting to have a better flying experience and the best flight upgrade is something that many of us want. We shouldn't have to spend every flight in coach because we are not professionals on a business trip or rock stars. While upgrading is not possible on every flight we take, there are some ways to increase the chances of flying first class without going into debt.
" Have a pleasant attitude. Upon arrival to the airport or even over the phone while en route, make sure to use a pleasant voice with the airline agents. The agents are usually in charge of who gets an upgrade and who doesn't and being mean or insulting the airport personnel is not going to help your cause.
" Travel Solo. While taking the family along everywhere you go seems like a great idea, upgrades are better achieved when flying solo. Agents will generally upgrade a single ticket before upgrading four or five.
" Choose your flight time wisely. First class is usually occupied by the upper class business men or women or celebrities who travel during peak business hours. To get the best flight upgrade possible, travel during hours that are not common for business travel- mainly the evening hours, holidays, and weekends.
" Become a frequent flyer. There are several benefits to signing up for a frequent flyer program offered by an airline. The airline appreciates your business and wants to keep you coming back. While the rewards can include free flights and other freebies, they can also include first priority to first class seating upgrades.
" Dress for the seat. It's been documented in several reports that those who are nicely dressed and look the role of first class passengers have better chances at getting the best flight upgrades. This doesn't mean that you have to spend hundreds of dollars on a tailored suit or dress; it just means to leave the jeans and sweats in the suitcase.
" Complain about it. No, don't complain about the airline that owns the airport you are standing in. That could easily get you bumped from coach to no seat at all. Instead, mention negative experiences you have had with competitors. While this is not a sure fire way to get an upgrade, the airline will usually do what is necessary to give you a good impression of them.
" Get to the airport early. In an attempt to increase revenue and make customers happy, airlines may reserve a few first class seats on a first come first serve basis. Arriving at the airport early increases your chances of getting the best flight upgrade.
While there is no way to know ahead of time the availability of first class seats, following the few tips above can better your chances of getting the best flight upgrade possible. Remember that many people will be contending for the upgrade so try to make sure that others do not know your intentions. Keeping your attempts low key may pay off. Also keep in mind that first class is not always possible and every once in a while you may have to endure the trip in the coach section.


Jonathan Kittley is the airline employee, and wasinterviewed on: http://www.free-flight-upgrades.com where you can learn all about cheap flights and free flight upgrades.