Want to Fly First Class? Experts Reveal the Smartest Ways to Upgrade Your Flight

We’ve all dreamed of slipping into a plush first-class seat, sipping champagne at 35,000 feet, and leaving the cramped economy cabin behind. Hollywood makes it look easy—just flash a smile, mention a honeymoon, and voilà: you’re upgraded. But real life? Not quite. Scoring a flight upgrade—especially a free one—is less about luck and more about knowing how and when to ask.

Airline insiders and people who fly often say that good timing is only part of the secret. You need the right approach, reliable support and technological awareness. Here’s how to get the most out of your flight upgrade, with a focus on the best moments to act and some methods airlines aren’t shouting about.

What Exactly Is a Flight Upgrade?

Not all upgrades mean you’ll be drinking champagne in first class. At times, booking a seat in the exit row is all it takes for extra legroom. At other times, I get to travel in business class and lie totally flat for comfort.

Here’s a breakdown of the three main types of upgrades you can use:

• System-Wide Upgrades: This upgrade goes to what some call the unicorns—the elite frequent fliers. So, if you’ve earned rare elite status, you can check this out.
• Paid or Points-Based Upgrades: Frequently referred to as sticker or mileage upgrades, with which you can pay less or use points to upgrade your seat. Because they’re nice to work with, demand often varies, and they aren’t always offered everywhere.
• Automatic Loyalty Upgrades: High-tier members of an airline’s loyalty program may be added to an upgrade waitlist. But it’s just that—a waitlist. There’s no guarantee.

In short: Upgrades aren’t magical. Airlines rarely give them away unless there’s a compelling reason—or a smart strategy at play.

When’s the Best Time to Ask for an Upgrade?

Timing is everything. The sooner you act, the better your chances.

Banks mentions that the right time to try for an upgrade is just after you have booked your ticket. Most airlines reveal their schedule 11 months ahead of time, and the ticket prices fluctuate as the seats become booked. Once you book your flight, check the airline’s app frequently, either weekly or daily. The app may offer limited-time discounted upgrades based on seat availability.

Pro tip: If you’re flexible and persistent, you could find that business class seat for a fraction of the original cost, especially in the days leading up to departure.

How Much Does It Really Cost to Upgrade?

Prices vary wildly depending on the route, season, airline, and cabin class. Here’s a rough breakdown:

Upgrade Type	Estimated Cost (One Way)
Economy to Premium Economy	$100 – $300
Economy to Business Class	$400 – $1,200 (domestic/international)
Business to First Class	$1,000+ on long-haul routes

Hot tip: Many airlines offer “last-minute upgrade deals” via their app or during online check-in, sometimes slashing upgrade prices up to 70% off.

How to Snag a Free Upgrade (It Can Happen)

Let’s be honest – Free upgrades are barely available, but the good thing is you can still get them from time to time.

Here are some ways, backed by Banks, to get a cheap or free upgrade.

1. Join a Frequent Flyer Program

It might seem obvious, but loyalty pays. Eligible members, such as frequent flyers, are usually upgraded first when there are complimentary upgrades on short routes. Keep flying with one airline (or its group of partners) so you can earn more points and move up tiers faster.

2. Leverage Credit Card Perks

Many travel credit cards, including the Delta AmEx, Chase Sapphire Reserve and United Explorer, offer upgrades, early boarding and free access to lounges, which make your journey more comfortable. In fact, some airlines provide complimentary upgrades or upgrade certificates.

3. Use Airline Bidding Systems

Upgrade auctions are now available on several airlines. After booking, you will get an email or notification in the app to give you the chance to bid on an upgrade. The more you bid and the higher your loyalty status, the greater your chances.

4. Request an Upgrade at the Airport

Ask kindly at check-in or at the gate, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or traveling solo. A polite request never hurts. Some travelers have even scored a free move-up simply by dressing smartly and being courteous.

5. Try Status Matching

Sometimes, airlines will recognize your elite status from another airline and help you reach upgrades more quickly. It becomes very useful when you are changing airlines or joining a new alliance (such as SkyTeam, Oneworld or Star Alliance).

Can You Ask for an Upgrade at the Airport?

You bet, but it’s a gamble and a good one – you never know.

Here’s how to play your cards smart:

• Call ahead. Speaking directly with airline customer service gives you better odds than hoping the app serves up a deal.
• Use your travel agent. They often have access to booking tools that can flag available upgrade offers.
• Ask at check-in or the gate. Missed connections or no-shows can free up premium seats at the last minute. Make your interest known early and politely.
• Be strategic, not sneaky. A compelling personal story (military service, special occasion, health need) might catch a gate agent’s empathy. No guarantees—but it has worked before.
• Talk to the flight crew. Once onboard, a lead flight attendant might be able to move you if there’s space after takeoff, especially if there’s a seating issue or an empty premium seat.

What About Expedia and Discount Booking Sites?

If you booked your flight through a third-party site like Expedia or a travel deal platform, it becomes less likely that you’ll get an upgrade.

Why? Most of the time, these sites purchase flights in bulk, and these tickets are locked and cannot be upgraded.

If you booked using “published airfare,” you could get a refund by calling the airline. Costco, on the other hand, includes upgrade-eligible flights in their travel packages, but this is sometimes not always. So be sure to check it before making your booking.

NOTE: If you want to upgrade, it’s best to book your flight through the airline.

Flying Trends in 2025: New Ways Airlines Are Offering Upgrades

• Subscription Models: Airlines like Alaska and Lufthansa are experimenting with a monthly fee system that allows members to upgrade and access lounges. So, check them out.
• AI-Powered Upgrade Offers: Some carriers are using AI to predict upgrade availability and offer “just-in-time” upgrades through apps.
• Dynamic Pricing & Personalization: Depending on your travel history, booking behavior, and status, airlines may set a personalized upgrade price for you. As a result, loyal customers may be offered discounted upgrades on the same route as others.

So, Should You Upgrade Your Seat?

Well, only you can answer that.

If you know coach will make your trip uncomfortable, it may be worth spending more upfront. But, if you just want a more comfortable seat, use the tips mentioned to watch out for discounts.

However, the only way to guarantee a business or first-class seat is to buy in cash or miles. The rest is about strategy, timing and a bit of luck.

So go ahead, check that app one more time before takeoff—you might just find yourself sipping bubbly at 35,000 feet.