Flight
Upgrades

If you are like most of us, you rarely, if ever, book first-class tickets for your flights. Sometimes passengers are offered free upgrades on flights, and for those cases, it's nice to know how to increase your chance of getting the upgrade.  

• Most passengers in the business class are working, business people. If you travel on bank or federal holidays, there is a better chance those seats are empty and airlines are more likely to offer upgrades. 
• Every airline appreciates your loyalty and therefore rewards the repeat business. Sign up for a loyalty program with the airline of your preference and build up a rapport with them. That airline will be more inclined to offer the upgrades to valued, repeat customers. 
• Arrive early for your flight. If there are one or two seats available in first class, you might be offered the upgrade as a reward for being there early.
• Check your email before you take off. Many times available seats in first class are offered at an extremely low upgrade fee at the last minute. You may be surprised to find out that you can afford to make the jump to first class.
• Dress the part.  You don't have to wear a suit, just wear something professional that shows you belong.
• Travel during peak times, Airlines are more likely to upgrade people  to make room on flights they oversell.
• Ask to be bumped.  You can volunteer at checkin or with the gate agent to get bumped if your schedule allows.  Ask for the upgrade.  
• Of course, always be kind. Acknowledge your attendants in a sincere way. Your kindness just might be rewarded.
   

No matter where you sit on the plane, be sure to book your flights with AAA.