The days where a smart suit and sharp smile in the check-in line could score you a seat in business-class are long gone. It is true that flight upgrades occasionally still happen but there is much you can do to stack the odds in your favor. These 8, simple to extreme, travel tips should ensure that you do everything possible to get that upgrade.
- Airline Loyalty Program
Starting with the one of the most likely ways you’ll get to turn left when you get on the aircraft, without paying in full, is by being a trusted, valued and, most of all, known passenger. Joining an elite frequent flyer program can get you those three prized initials, SFU (suitable for upgrade) by your name on the -passenger manifest. It is true that they cost a little upfront but can quickly offer all manner of savings.
- Choose Your Carrier With Care
Not all points systems allow you the chance of an upgrade. Some of the plans are designed to make it impossible to get an upgrade; Air Canada, for example, does not allow points from coach to be used in business-class.
- Travel By Yourself
While not always achievable, travelling alone will increase the chances of an upgrade. An airline is very unlikely to upgrade a small group, so this is more a case of not being ruled out than getting selected.
- Check in Later
A high risk strategy, checking in late can get you booked in directly to business class. It can also leave you with the worst seat in coach class.
- Pick Your Plane
Not all aircraft have the same proportionate amount of seats in business and first class. You are obviously more likely to land a seat if there are more available in the first place. As a general rule, modern narrow-body jets have a higher proportion of exclusive seating than the wide-body versions.
- Give Up Your Seat
If you have a little time to spare, volunteering to give up your seat on an overbooked flight can get you a flight voucher and free upgrade certificate.
- Dress the Part
Dressing in a smart business suit will not, by itself get you upgraded, but dressing like a bum is a sure way to be ruled out all together.
- Marry a Flight Attendant
If all other tactics fail, dating or marrying a flight attendant will probably stack the odds in your favor. Similarly, knowing or being related to someone in the industry can get you a serious discount. (This tip is completely just for fun —and to see if you were still reading!)
Signature Transportation may not be able to get you into business class in the air but we can certainly offer you a massively enhanced travel experience when you get to your destination. As a luxury ground transportation company based in the greater Denver area, we provide exclusive chauffeured transportation for groups and individuals for much less than you think. Call us today to find out exactly how good a deal you can get with us.
