Get A Free Upgrade On Your Next Flight

It seems everyone who flies frequently has a story about finessing his or her way into scoring a sweet airline upgrade. After all who wouldn't prefer to buy a cheap economy class ticket only to get bumped up to business or first class where more comfort, more legroom, more attentive service, and access to the airline's posh lounge are just a few feet away? The continued installation of flat seat beds in business and first class have reinforced the appeal tenfold.

Gone (more or less, but not totally) are the days where having the "right look" scored you an upgrade. (Still, I advise dressing well anyway so you "look the part.") You may exude some well-measured and cool charisma that previously convinced airline staff that you are a VIP accidentally seated with commoners, but airlines today are overwhelmed with more hurdles that make complimentary upgrades a challenge, but that much sweeter for those who triumph.

Here's your ticket on how to get to the front of the plane for a little pampering and white tablecloth service if you're lucky, your timing is right, and well, you're a nice person.



Join your airline's frequent flyer program.
When you reach 'elite status' you increase your chances of getting upgraded if there is any availability on the day you fly. Airlines give upgrade priority to their highest-level members.

Ask nicely.
Don't demand an upgrade; warmly inquire about availability. Remember, hotel and airline folk are always bombarded with requests so a nice, respectful person stands out in a sea of frustrated complainers.

Arrive early.
Have an upgrade game plan and enough time to execute it. All those late arrivals hoping to get on standby should be competing with you, not you with them.



Make easy requests.
Then work your way up. Start with asking for more legroom with an aisle seat. Then try for a seat move toward the front of the plane.



Ditch the discounted economy tickets.
If you know you really want that upgrade in advance, pay for a full fare economy or premium economy ticket. Those tickets give you upgrade priority and make it easier to hedge your upgrade bet.

Play the customer loyalty card.
Keeping up with the kind and respectful tone, it never hurts to politely mention what a loyal customer you are to the airline. While asking for the upgrade, let the staffer know that you only fly their airline and only stay at their partner hotel - adding that you've been doing so for however many years.
 
Think small.
Smaller airports and smaller frequent flyer programs are more inclined to give you an upgrade. With the little guys the competition is less steep.


Share a bit about yourself.
Are you traveling for a honeymoon? A birthday? Anniversary? Tipping off the decision makers of your special occasion is often a way to score an upgrade or perk.



Give a brief reason why you need the upgrade.
Carefully reveal why you'd like to sit up there. The old airsick from sitting all the way in the back trick has been know to work well. Sympathy is a great card to play if done convincingly and tactfully. But remember: less is more in the drama category.



Inquire often.
Not the same person necessarily, but at different locations throughout the airport. Don't be a nuisance. Try first when you check in. Second, when you arrive early at your gate; and then again before boarding. Checking in the day before and also at the last minute can also time well for a generous upgrade.



Check in at the very last minute.
This is a risky one but the payoff can be sweet. It is also the one I have had the most luck with. What you're doing is banking on the economy seats filling up so that an airline staffer will choose to seat you in a better section. Do note that it is risky these days -- an over booked flight could leave you without a seat period.

What's the secret to your upgrade success?  Share in the comments area below.




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Business Insider is a new kind of business site, designed for today's business thought-leaders and taking full advantage of the online medium. It is high-velocity, real-time news, analysis, and original commentary. Shira Levine is a freelance journalist who writes about small business, travel, real estate and pop culture.