a day ago
Free upgrades are more likely to be given out at a specific time BEFORE boarding, reveals travel expert
Paying hundreds, often thousands, for a business class or better seat is unattainable for most of us - but the occasional surprise upgrade can happen.
If you're dreaming of turning left instead of right on your next trip, then taking heed of an expert tip could see mission accomplished.
While it's rare to be one of those lucky souls upgraded for logistical reasons such as overbooked economy cabins, says Julian Kheel, founder and CEO at Points Path, it does happen, and timing is apparently everything.
The expert told Travel + Leisure that making the approach at just the right moment could see your date with a fancy lunch and a flat-bed happen.
He said: 'It's nearly impossible for the average traveler to get a free upgrade to business or first-class today. [It's] extremely rare, but it does happen once in a while.'
The secret is all about not making the approach at the wrong time, such as when airline staff who make the decisions on last-gasp upgrades look harassed.
He says mentioning it as fellow passengers are queuing to board is almost certain to fail, and piping up just as the doors are closing is also an unwise move - but go in early with the request instead.
If you have a special reason - such as a birthday or anniversary, you might be able to charm your way into an elevated cabin.
Those in the know say waiting to get on the plane is one way to kill your chances - because airborne cabin crew rarely make the decisions on upgrades, even if you can see empty rows in business or first.
One airline cabin crew worker shared on Reddit recently: 'At my airline, [flight attendants] are not allowed to upgrade [passengers] to first class.
'Talk to [the] gate agent or ticket agent when you check your bags. They are the ones who assign seats and can upgrade you.'
They did reveal a tip that might bring out the mile-high vandal in you though, saying one of the only ways to get moved up when you're in economy is if the seat you've been sold is broken or doesn't work.
The cabin crew employee wrote: 'If you're on the plane and there's something physically wrong with your seat, like a broken armrest or tray table, that can also be a reason to ask if you might be moved to a better seat up front.'
Earlier this year, Dawn Morwood, co-director of Cheap Deals Away UK, revealed her top tips too, advising passengers on 'how to position yourself as a prime candidate' for a free of charge upgrade.
The first tip from Dawn is simply just to ask.
She told the Express: 'When you check in, smile warmly and simply ask, 'Are there any upgrade opportunities available today?'
'This phrasing is important - it's polite, direct, and shows you understand upgrades aren't guaranteed.'
But the timing of this question is also just as important, says Dawn.
She explains: 'Check in early, when more premium seats are likely available, but not during peak busy periods when staff are rushed.
'And always ask discreetly - never demand an upgrade in front of other passengers.'
Even your clothes could also make all the difference, so Dawn recommends choosing your airport outfit very wisely – and making a bit of an effort with your appearance.
She says: 'Smart-casual clothing sends a signal that you'll 'fit in' with the premium cabin environment.
'Think neat jeans or trousers, a collared shirt or nice top, and clean, decent shoes.'
Telling the staff you're celebrating something like a honeymoon or big birthday could also lead to cabin crew giving you special treatment.
Dawn adds: 'I've seen couples get upgraded because they mentioned their anniversary. One pair even received complimentary champagne in business class.'
