Scoring a Discounted Upgrade
Unlike Economy, the fancier seats in Premium, Business, and First class are rarely full. Why? Simple: they’re expensive and out of reach for most travelers. That’s why airlines sometimes offer these empty spots at a competitive price—think less “private jet,” more “flash sale.” Keep an eagle eye on your inbox, as these special upgrade offers might land there as late as one hour before your flight departs. The quick and the eager have the upper hand—so those who strike first, fly best! On average, an upgrade for a long-haul flight might cost around €200 (about $215). It’s a smart move to sign up for airline loyalty programs, too, since you can often snag an upgrade using your frequent flyer miles.
The Business Class Secret: Timing Is Everything
Business class isn’t called “business” for nothing: it’s a favorite for busy professionals crisscrossing the globe between important meetings—sometimes separated by just a few hours and a couple of time zones. But here’s the trick: at weekends, and especially right in the middle of the business day, you’re more likely to find empty seats in Business or First. So if you’re flying during these off-peak hours, keep your hopes up! You might just have a shot at one of those coveted seats if there’s less demand from the usual suit-and-tie crowd.
Myths and Connections: What Actually Works?
You might have heard that being the first or very last to check in increases your odds of getting upgraded. Sorry to burst your bubble, but that’s a myth: seats are handed out well before passengers queue up at the counter, so checking in early or late makes little difference (except, maybe, earning you a place in the boarding scrum). But, if you’ve got connections—a friend or family member working at the airline—now we’re talking! A word in the right ear, or even a polite letter handed to the pilot or chief flight attendant, could lead to a complimentary upgrade if there’s space available. It’s not new, but the power of a well-placed nudge shouldn’t be underestimated.
The Simple Charm of Kindness
If this next tip sounds almost comically easy, that’s because it is: being friendly and charming with the cabin crew can genuinely work in your favor. If you catch the attention of a flight attendant—maybe it’s your sparkling wit, your warmth, or even the story behind your journey (a bereavement, wedding anniversary, or—who knows—your bachelorette party), you might just stand out among the crowd. Sometimes, a little kindness goes a long way. And if you’re disabled, injured, or pregnant, the crew may also offer you a more comfortable seat. The main thing? Stay authentic. There’s no need to go overboard—you want to win hearts, not Oscars!
