I commented on this video last year. I am commenting again because I was flying with qatar airways from Doha to Boston and I asked the lady at the gate if the flight was overbooked, she checked and said yes. Is it OK if you give me seat to someone else and give me an upgrade. And guess what she said yes. I flew Qatar airways business class Qsuite for free. What you said in the video worked. Dress nicely is the key.
I got lucky one time so far in my travels. I was coming back from New Orleans and there was a family that wanted to sit together and they had small children. I was with my sister and Mom. The counter ppl asked over the intercom if there was anyone who was willing to switch seats 💺 so the family could stay together. After they made this announcement several times, my mom noticed how stressed the mom and Dad looked waiting by the counter. She asked me if my sis and I were willing to give up our seats so the young family could sit together. I didn’t mind so I walked up to the counter and traded our 3 seats. The ppl behind the counter were super appreciative. When they issued me our new seats they were regular seats all spread out for our first leg of the trip but after our lay over on the second leg of the trip back they bumped us up to First Class, something I never expected!!! Needless to say we all got first class and was seated together happy as 3 Larks!!!
I got a miraculous upgrade to Business class from Brisbane to Heathrow. I was going back alone for my fathers funeral after he committed suicide. I was so incredibly grateful and I hadn’t sought it out. Thank you Qantas!
I was upgraded on my birthday! To first class with emirates. I was full paying business ticket tho! But wow! Simply mind blowing! Had a Buttler for goodness sake! Dine on demand! 8years ago that was impressive!
I'm a platinum with Qantas and as such, I can get into the first class lounge in Dubai even if I'm travelling in economy. Did you go in there? Holy crap, that place is mind blowing.
My son was travelling with me and was pushing my wheelchair while we lined up in the check-in counter. They may me wait till the last and i was getting worried that the agent might have forgotten me..she didnt..she waited to upgrade us..because she said it was nice for my son to take me on a trip even i was handicapped..she was so kind..and i played it forward.
I was once upgraded on a British Airways flight from LHR to SFO. I work for a large hotel company, and the crew(s) stay at the hotel I work for in San Francisco during their layover. I simply introduced myself to one of the cabin crew as an associate of the hotel and told her that if there is anything I can do for the crew during the stay to let me know and gave her my business card. I wasn't expecting anything afterwards, but the cabin director approached me, asked me to grab my belongings and follow him. Passengers around me thought I was being escorted off the aircraft, but once passed the curtain forward of the aircraft, the cabin director pointed mew to a vacant seat in business class! Sure made my flight much more comfy, so I made sure to upgrade his stay to one of our nice suites for his 2 day layover. The price of the room doesn't compare to what people pay for a business class seat on a long haul, so I guess I was really lucky on this occasion.
I've been upgraded twice from coach to business class. I did not ask for an upgrade but was given one; the flights were crowded and I was dressed for success. Thanks for the pro tip of asking if the flight was overbooked; I'll try that😁😁
Very informative video. I recently got upgraded without asking on a 10 hour international flight. I found out that since I purchased my ticket close to departure I spent the most and was rewarded.
On our Honeymoon, we showed up at the gate wearing our wedding clothes. My wife was wearing her gown and I was in a tuxedo. The Gate Agent offered me an upgrade to First Class when I checked us in.After we were airborne, the Captain came on the intercom and asked the entire flight to give the first class passengers Dr. and Mrs., a round of applause for believing in love.My new wife was thoroughly impressed. Please don't tell her that I just got really lucky TWICE that day.I promise, I will tell her someday, maybe. : )
Watched and read many of the comments and replies. Good informative subject and delivery! I fly stand-by tickets as a close friend of an ex-American Airlines worker, so my ticket often says this tiny distinction, but I always tell the gate attendant that I have operated emergency doors if they need to put me by one and that I can sit wherever they need to move me to. Being dressed business casual and elderly and overweight and flying late in the evening I occasionally DO get a free upgrade, but I am not against paying the difference at the counter, but my flights usually cost less than $150, so it would be a big jump in cost for me. 10 years ago I was asked if I would like to upgrade after sitting in my Coach seat and I said, "Could you take my Wife here beside me instead of me? She has never got to fly in First before." Stewardess took her forward and came back later for me after they both had been crying. I never felt so bad for doing something nice.
I once got a free upgrade at the gate. We weren't on honeymoon, or celebrating anything, it was our first ever flight on that airline. To this day I don't know why we got upgraded. But it was amazing! This was Virgin Atlantic - LGW-MCO. We got upgraded from economy to first, outbound.
Got upgraded during my Qatar Airways Flight New York to Doha. I was already seated in the economy class but was approached by the ground staff and said he will be moving me to Business Class. It was the most awesome thing I got to experience!
I used to work for Qatar Airways (as a flight attendant) and can confirm this is very normal for the airline to upgrade passengers from Economy to Business class on US flights. Glad you enjoyed the experience!
@@katrinakaye7997 idk if you would know this, but if you book with qatar and they offer you an upgrade before the flight that you have to pay for, will the price always be a set price for anyone in economy on an upgradeable fare, or depending on what actual fare class you are on will it be cheaper or higher?
I realize it's a slightly different thing but I always make sure to check-in online for my flights exactly 24 hours before the flight. Sometimes they will offer an inexpensive upgrade to Business or First but of course it's first come first served.
Most people say in order to upgrade you need to be loyal to 1 airline {and its partners}, and fly a LOT, but I like that you gave us tips that aren't complicated and easy to execute! I always dress nice and I have been upgraded on overseas flights twice for looking good! That is definitely a thing! Thanks for the tips!
Wow, me and my husband got upgraded to business class without asking. We knew that was a mistake, and asked the flight attended that we have not paid for upgrade. She smiled to us and she said that was a nice switch we received. She did not know it was our wedding anniversary, and we were coming from my sister funeral. We thank God and the person that gave us that wonderful gift that day. It was our first time in business class, and was supper comfortable. American airlines are the best. 😀 👍
I remember me and my two preteen daughters were going on our first trip ever to Disney World from Philadelphia. I guess the Gate Agent saw how crazy excited we were and wanted to make our first plane trip ever and to Disney no doubt extra magical by upgrading us three to Business Class. My Daughters got to visit the cock pit, got the little Pilot Stickers and had a ball! This was 2011.
You are the most honest guy in all the videos I saw so far on this subject. You somehow get the feeling that an upgrade is a sure thing which I find misleading. With you, it's different though. I'll be flying from Namibia-Windhoek to LA, the USA come 26 October. This will be only my third time flying and my first long haul international flight. Thanks for the video. To be honest I don't really care for business class. I only care for a window seat, which I actually already booked and paid for.
I was once upgraded to business class on Alitalia on a flight from Geneva to Bucharest via Milan. I was travelling with my cello and wanted to ask if I could do a gate check to help make sure my instument did not break. I did not book a seat for my cello but the ticket agent told me, "we at Alitalia value the arts and recognize your cello as your most valuable possession. We'll upgrade you to business class with a seat for your cello." My jaw was on the floor. I was dressed nicely, too, hehe.
I got upgraded once. The flight was delayed and so a lot of people were going to miss their connecting flight so they rebooked us on another flight the next morning. Some got very loud about this but they said since it was the start of our journey with them they could just tell us to come back. They didn't want us to be stranded mid journey as then they'd have to get us hotel rooms. I can't remember the stopover city, but the full journey was Seattle to San Antonio. I unfortunately lived on an island north of Seattle and had flown in a small plane (not any big company) to Boeing field and shuttled over to SeaTac and was stranded. I spoke with the agent calmly and politely but also didn't give up at the first no when I explained both the fact that I couldn't just go home until the next day and that I had a meeting that was scheduled to start before the flight was due to take off the next day. After a lot of calm discussion and saying I was happy to have as many stopovers as needed in order to fly that day, she had me fly to Houston then Dallas and then San Antonio and the Seattle to Houston part she upgraded me to first! It wasn't super fancy, but a nicer seat and I got to fly that day while all the angry shouty people didn't so no complaints from me!
Great video. You are right about dressing appropriately. I have been upgraded on many occasions due to dressing in business attire, about 8 times in fact. It is also important to be aware of the best time to travel. I also find that it is important to be genuinely kind to the agents. These people work hard and are often under appreciated. A kind words goes a long way.
I can understand your point. However, given the situations that lead to me being upgraded, I observed the number of people requesting complimentary upgrade and I noted that those who where dressed in business attire fared better than those who were more casually attired. In fact I have never observed those that were casually attired receiving complimentary upgrades. However, your mileage may vary.
Sad people still judge others over the clothes on thhere back! I dress plain and humble. I also have health issues and I have to lay down after so many hrs in a day. But sadly can't afford first class
@@vacationboyvideos Although I have compassion for your health issues, I do find a modicum of being *clean* and not showing up in ripped jeans or deep-cut outfits or just looking scruffy a matter of *respect* towards not being *at home * lazying on your couch where no-one cars if you haven't showered in three days, have stubble or your hair looking like a frickin' jungle. For all *I* care you can lay naked on your couch. It's none of my business. HowEVER, having to sit next to someone for 8+ hours in a *very* confined space with someone who makes you *uncomfortable* due to their scruffy appearance has *nothing* to do with 'judging' people by their clothes but is a *lack* of courtesy towards your environment and where you expect to be treated respectfully in spite of looking as if you've just fallen out of bed. I betcha my bottom dollah you wouldn't want to have someone cater and serve you your food by someone who looks unkempt, is smelly and has torn, dirty and scruffy clothing. But that's just me. Right?
@@MandalayMoore33 I'm a female solo traveler. I often dress down so that I'm not targeted by pickpockets and such. So, because I dress down, I can't get a free upgrade? Hmm. Damn if I do, damn if I don't.
I think joining frequent flyer program is essential. I have been upgraded three times in past 4 years going from Doha to Houston or the other way around on Qatar airways, which is 16 hour flight. I do have a habit telling the check in agent that, "if you upgrade people because the flight is oversold, I want to be considered."
My 18-year old son was upgraded on his last trip from Connecticut to California. He recently enlisted in the US Navy and was wearing his Navy sweatshirt. The gate agent asked him about it and he let her know he signed up and was going to boot camp in the summer. She upgraded him at no extra charge and made his day.
I would think a savvy airline would see the benefit of having a reputation for occasionally giving free upgrades, because people would be inclined to choose to fly with that airline over their competitors.
I have personally seen 2 instances where passengers were upgraded into First Class on an International long haul flight. The first occasion was when Business class was oversold so the gate agents upgraded the " Global Elite"... The second time was when 2 seats in Business class didn't recline (lay flat type seats) so they upgraded those 2 passengers into First Class.
I was upgraded to first class once when I was 15 years old. I don't really know why they picked me, I wasn't a frequent flyer or anything. They had the extra seat available, and actually the seats across from me stayed empty the whole flight. A pilot sat next to me and we had an interesting conversation. It was great, and right up front.
I got upgraded once on a Lufthansa flight from Bangkok to Munich, but I had purchased an upgrade on my first leg with Thai from Melbourne to Bangkok. I had Silver status with Thai Star Alliance. There was kind of an indication that something was up when I checked-in at Melbourne, where I was advised I couldn’t be checked in for the second leg, although I they were able to confirm me on the flight. When I went to the transfer desk in Bangkok, there was no fuss or mention of an upgrade but my boarding pass was for seat 11A...and had written on it ‘no lounge’! I was also on a Star Alliance Round the World fare which may have helped a little too. On my second last leg San Francisco to Auckland on Air New Zealand, I was offered an upgrade for US$900, which I didn’t take. Again I was offered an upgrade on the last leg Auckland to Melbourne for NZ$150, which I took. These days if I’m traveling alone I pretty much only fly business or premium economy, there is no stress that way. I am happy in economy if I am traveling with someone.
I'm planning on travelling to the US from the UK next spring - my first long haul flight for about 12 years, so I've been haunting RUclips looking for tips of all sorts. This is the first piece on upgrades I've seen that seems honest - all the others pretty much imply that upgrades are there for the asking! Thanks for what comes across as a realistic view. I've subscribed in the expectation of more properly helpful info - keep up the good work.
I've flown a few million miles had my share of bumps, upgrades and so on. This was probably one or the best and most honest videos I've seen on the subject. Too bad my current shuttle is 3.5 hours and seems to be packed 99 percent of the time and no option for bump unless you want to go the next day if there is even a seat that day. I once got bumped and it took a week to find me a seat. Thanks for the refresher.
Thanks for your informational video :) i myself got upgraded to business class recently from my vacation. What i did is i booked the ticket directly from the airline, i did not use kayak or other agent. then they sent me an email offering me if i want to upgrade, it's not a free upgrade though, you need to do an online bidding. i guess i'm the highest bidder :) or who know i'm the only one they upgrade, because we are less than 10 in business class. So, 24 hrs before the flight they upgraded me. It's a very nice experience, though pricey but it's worth it!
Great information! And yes, I heard about this online bidding process. A few airlines are trying it out and it seems great!! Totally agree that it is worth it!
A flew from Milan to Copenhagen couple years ago, and they overbooked the flight. Since I was alone on the flight, I was offered to sit in the cockpit with captain and co-pilot the whole flight :)
Back in '94 when I was 9 yrs old my mom, younger sister and I were flying home from a Colorado ski trip. On the leg from Stapleton to O'Hare, American Airlines upgraded my younger sister & I in first class because economy was full and didn't have room there for a family of 3 seated together. I don't recall much of the hospitality but I did enjoy the double chocolate chip cookies!
I was flying to Qatar from Manchester, our pilot borrowed my charger before the boarding. We had a brief chat, never expected a upgrade but got given a upgrade. I’d say never expect to get an upgrade but be polite and nice to everyone you speak at the airport, if you’re lucky then you might get one.
🙌🏻 thank you for explaining this!!! As a flight attendant I cannot tell you how many times I get asked for upgrades!!!! Like you said, I would love to upgrade everyone too!!! But at the end of the day...my job is on the line! So glad you explain how and why upgrades happen or don’t happen! 👍🏼
Thanks!! And I completely agree. It sucks to say no and it makes it even harder when someone thinks that you are saying no because you just don’t want to!
I was bumped up to First Class (from economy!) on a flight to Toronto with Air Canada a few years ago. It was only a short flight, but it was pretty darn nice flight for sure!
My dad was a minster, always wore his dog collar when flying. Heaps of upgrades for him. When economy seems uncomfortable I remind myself "at least it isn't a Hercules and you don't you don't have to get off till it lands"
I'm a Diamond member with Scandinavia Airlines, been upgraded multipel Times. Both when The flight has been oversold but Also so called "complementary upgrades". However I normally book 75% in high price tickets so offen I am already in business Class or First Class. But those times I am stuck in Economy and i Do get the upgrade Its wonderful. And Also to add, i dont expect to be upgraded, I always say: Book The Class you want to fly, that way you wont get disapointed :) Great video btw!
Thanks Simon! That's exactly it, Scandinavia Airlines is doing it right!! It helps build customer loyalty! And I agree, if you really want Business, book it! Never bank on getting to upgrade.
Within 2 years of joining BA, I was very randomly upgraded to club world LHR-LAX or viceversa 4 different times. Silver member the whole time. Definitely my favourite airline
my girlfriend and I were upgraded to Business Class on Qatar Airways yesterday from Phuket to Paris ! It was insane ! When we arrived to drop off our luggages, the women said that the flight was full and she upgraded us to Business ! I don't know why but it was an amazing experience ! Qatar Airways Business Class is just insane and so comfy
Thanks for the video. You'll probably be rewarded your whole lifetime for helping the elderly folks. You gave me an idea just to volunteer to be upgraded, if more seats are needed in Economy. Had not thought of that.
Several years ago we planned a trip of a lifetime to England & Scotland. We planned & saved for this trip over 2 yrs-We purchased Premium Economy on British Airways from Michigan to London-when we arrived at check in we were informed we were upgraded to Business Class. It was a wonderful surprise & experience. BTW--British Airways is fabulous!!!
I can't believe that you got suspended for doing "good deeds". And no, you can't just drive down to Florida, if you live in Oregon. It will take you DAYS
My husband and I got lucky, flying from Australia to Hong Kong, with Cathay Pacific we were told at the gate they had upgraded us to business class. Love Cathay Pacific great airline. We have traveled with Emirates to uk on 3 different occasions never offered an upgrade. So our next Visit we are giving Qatar a try instead of Emirates, as Emirates to get frequent flyer you have to fly every year. Only the rich can afford every year.! So will keep you posted on Qatar,
I flew Qatar Airways from JFK to Qatar City (not my final destination - just a plane change) and I will never fly that airline again. Although the flight attendants were very kind, I didn't know that all alcohol was forbidden both on that airline as well as in that country. If you enjoy a glass of wine with your meals when flying, pick another airline. The Saudi Arabian airline, and country, enforces the same rule FYI.
I got a free upgrade once. I informed the gate agent I was a disabled vet. I just asked for seats that were closer to the front of the plane. I did not expect first class.
My wife and I fly A LOT. Not business class road warrior but still a lot. I've only sat in first class once because a couple wanted my seat so they could sit together. Delta is our preferred airline and we use their credit card. We charge everything possible to that card. We pay the balance when due so we have no card fees. We will generally upgrade to Comfort Plus for the leg room and drinks are included. We will use the Sky Lounge because it just as cheap as lunch in another restaurant. The points really pile up. The last time we bought flights my wife purchased 5 flights for each of us (10 total) for $600. When you board just look at those sitting in first class, many are dressed like hell. Usually our flights are under 2 1/2 hrs so I always remind myself that the back of the plane arrives just a fraction of a second after the front.
Really liked the video. Thanks for the inside scoop on upgrades. What I've found is that being nice and appreciative goes a long way. I fly Southwestern so there really are no upgrades to be had. (Business class puts you up front but I like the rear of the plane - more opportunity for an empty seat next to you.) So it's not flirting with an agent or FA but just awareness of what they do; a lot of which is invisible to passengers. Pre-emptive calming down nervous, combative, drunk passengers. Keeping dogs under control. Working with kids in a lot of ways that is not in the job description. And the same understanding for all staff: gate agents, the check-in staff and the poor managers who have to take the guff from passengers who miss a flight or have a flight canceled. All for 3500 a month. But for me being nice goes a long way. Thanks so much for the vlog and you bet I subscribed
Rational approach.if I get a free upgrade I’m lucky just glad to be flying with a decent airline Virgin to Sydney on my first long haul for my son’s wedding next week
Me, my parents and my two younger brothers all got upgraded on a British Airways flight from Florida to London. Have no idea why, just our lucky day I guess
That's incredible! A nice long haul flight on a great airline! Sometimes you just happen to be in the right place at the right time! How did you like the flight?
That happened to us from San Francisco-NYC years ago with Delta, and for some reason 8 of us got tickets through United on coach from Costa Rica - San Francisco, but for some reason they ticketed them on 1st. We still don't know why.
I think I only wore a suit [without tie, it was in my pocket] once on an actual flight. I had to do a short 5 hour flight to Singapore [sardine class] before I got on my Business class seat at Changi on the way to London. I was unlucky, and some guy next vomited on me. Luckily I had a change of clothes, which was pretty casual [track suit pants] for the Business class leg! Free upgrades are pretty damn rare, and I would rather be comfortable. Turbulence often guarantees food and drink will be spilt on your clothes, and of course you use wipes and tissues to try to clean up, but it is simply not worth dressing well on a plane. At the other end, i will get out my good clothes, and catch a shower and shave if possible. Changing into clean, fresh clothes is psychologically better for you anyway, because most people feel pretty mouldy after a long trip. I try not to look like a tramp on board nevertheless, but comfort rather than fashion is more of a priority for me. The cabin crew know that I normally dress well because I have a suit bag which I ask them to stash when I get on the plane.
A friend managed to get upgraded to first class by missing his flight. :) The last plane on that route that day on a different airline they had agreement with was fully booked in economy and business, but had free first class seats. So to put him on that flight, he first got upgraded to first class on his missed flight, then he was transferred to the other flight.
yea its very slim at least Im a flight attendant for air canada and i also work at the boarding desk depending on the airport, We have specific rules when it comes to upgrades, if the flight is empty we consider bumping up passengers for upgrades, also theres people who are in the Aeroplan (frequent flyers) program if your even in that with the lowest status your going to be picked 99% of the time above of them. So Yes, its almost inpossible for the casual flyers
@@busterobe i’m going on a flight later in the year with my family and i am not a frequent flyer however my dad is, and we have a 2 year old child flying with me. would you say that if my father were to approach with his flyer miles he would be more likely to get it or because there are 4 people going we are not likely to get it?
@@baseprice4324 No i personally wouldnt. The best you could to get a upgrade would pretty much be if your flight has to much passengers set up and offer your seats and you might get upgraded
I'd not flown since 1988 because of a bad experience with turbulence. In May when I flew to meet a friend in Nashville. I was held up at the boarding gate while I was waiting for assistance, I waited so long the plane was held up for 15 minutes. I was taken onto the plane expecting to get dirty looks for boarding last, to my amazement I was escorted to business class, I didn't know what to expect but I didn't lie down, I didn't accept the champagne nor did I take anything other than the meal because I was still scared due to my last bad experienced. I can't say the flight back home was anything to brag about.
I was upgraded once because the flight was oversold. A year later I was downgraded because of basically the same reason. I had paid for the upgrade at the counter before boarding as I’d had recent hip replacement surgery and just wanted to be comfortable my seat was 1A. . Once seated as the plane was preparing for take off an attendant asked me to move back to a middle seat in row 27. I explained that reason I had paid for the upgrade and was basically ignored. I was told that I would be forcefully removed from the plane if I did not comply. As an attendant handed me my cane and escorted me back to 27B, she told me that my seat was given to an Air Marshal .Even though I complained, I was never compensated for the loss of the higher paid ticket or apologized to in any way. That was eight years ago..
We got upgraded because our original seat was bulkhead with extra leg space. However there was a young lady flying with her therapy dog and the dog needed the extra space. This felt extra special because I was flying to my brother’ funeral.
Hi PaleBlueDotTravel, I was upgrade 2/3 years ago. I asked if there is any upgrades available, they said they will check. The waited till just before boarding to call me to the desk and handed me my new boarding pass. I was ecstatic. It seems from the long procedure that they have cleared it with someone not just 1 gate agent acting by herself. Philippino's aren't ones for breaking the rules. I flew upgraded Business from Clark - Dubai on Emirates and I loved it. Sadly I had a cold at that time and struggled to sleep, even on my nice Business class bed.
Thanks for this perspective! I go to the airport dressed nicely every single flight i take. I ask the check-in agent for an upgrade. Then i go and ask the gate agent if it's oversold or if there's any chance of an upgrade. Then i will change into comfy sweatpants as soon as boarding starts.
Usually, asking the question with a polite smile 'do I qualify for a free upgrade please' never really works just on it's own. It's how you are dressed as well as frequent flyer status and whether the flight is over sold in economy class or not. The airline's loyal frequent flyers will be the ones to receive a complimentary upgrade, then it is based on the fare and ticket class paid.
We sometime fly Emirates and they sometimes offer an upgrade at a discounted price; without lounge access. We thought that by booking an economy on a A380 our chances would be better. Well of course not. All of economy would need to be filled before offering selected upgrade to business; even of business is not full. We did have a vacant middle seat for a poor man's business.
Nice tips I appreciate it. Two weeks ago I had an emergency trip to Europe. Purchased a Lufthansa premium economy ticket a day before my flight to Germany but purchased business on the return flight. When I woke up and checked on my flight status app it showed I was in business on their 747 instead of my chosen premium economy seat. I didn't ask for anything and did it all online being a miles and more member. I agree with everything you said you just have to get lucky and not expect anything. Lufthansa is great to fly with their service is great, the seats in my opinion in business lag a bit behind the top industry standard. But their flight crew is amazing and more than makes up for it. Hope this helps. Sub'd.
I ALMOST ALWAYS get an UPGRADE to first class BECAUSE....I learned a long time about PROPER DRESS ATTIRE and my last name is the same as a very famous person in Hollywood...they always ask me if I'm related and I always put my fingers to my lips and say shhhhh. It works almost every time unless it is someone that doesn't know this celebrity. It also helps to almost always check in with the desk agent and get real friendly with them and act like you know them. I also give out 5 dollar Starbucks Gift Cards to the Sky Cap's plus cash.THEY will get you into the AIRPORT CLUB and you will get FREE FOOD AND DRINKS!!! If you are just "NICE" it makes someone else day and it also keeps me from being stripped searched and no TSA long lines because I get pre approved. If at first I don't get first class when I check in I volunteer to pay the difference and they look at me and say the magic words that won't be necessary... do you want an aisle or a window seat and I say... is the first row available..they say yes and I say window seat please....then they print out my First Class Boarding Pass. I also ALWAYS display my PASSPORT that shows that I'm a world traveler and they simply say enjoy your flight and ask do I need a ride to the gate. YOU MUST BE NICE AND FRIENDLY!!!
I've never heard of SkyCap being able to get your into an airport lounge. Couldn't find anything online about it either. Are you saying SkyCap gives you passes or something? I don't get how that's possible. Would love to know more.
I got upgraded wearing jeans and hiking boots. I didnt bribe or talk to anyone at ANY point so... maybe a tired, about to drop walking to the plane, look works.
The very first flight that I took within the US, I got lucky traveling from Philly to ATL WITH MY PARENTS! Granted it was a light day but I wasn't expecting American to upgrade us especially since it was the three of us!
I would like to say that I would usually fly in coach/economy, but during one of the my trips, my flight was canceled, but I wanted to fly to my destination on the earliest flight possible, but there were no seats left in the coach/economy, but there was a seat available in First Class. I didn't know that I was going to be in First Class initially as I didn't get my ticket handed to me at the counter, but when I was given the ticket, I was like, um.. are you sure that I am allowed to be there to the counter agent and they told me that it was the only seat available and that they don't want to do compensation as what was stated in the video. Anyways, I only considered myself to be lucky and that I would have to do more flying before I am able to get an upgrade. Also, I am aspired to become a pilot, so I don't even have to think about the class as they are all behind and I am in control of the aircraft and that without me, they won't be going to their destinations (just a personally feeling).
Question... I fly to international often and regular economy tickets are like $700... then I'm asked if I want to move to business for $5000-10000. Like how does that make sense? Does Britney Spears and Kim Kardashian come over and dance for you? It's an insane price difference. I'm paying $500-1000/hour to be able to lie down instead of sitting.
My client wearing his national sports uniform and carrying a big trophy got given a free upgrade without asking. Now everytime he travels long distance he tries the same tactic and he says it works 60% of the time.
My seat was given to some one else when I had bought the ticket 6 months in advance. They down graded me and gave me an isle instead of my window. After being told there was no other option for me I watched as the gate agents slowly went and upgraded a bunch of random people before my eyes. United sucks ass.
I usually fly to Germany once every year or so to visit relatives. My parents usually buy me economy class. I do understand though, that you can afford only so much. However, I have a very hard time sleeping on those flights. Let’s just say, I’m awake the whole eight hour flight. Same thing goes on the way back to the United States, awake the whole eight and a half hours, nine hour flight.
Hey thanks for the good info. I know its usually pretty difficult to just randomly get a free upgrade but there's tons of videos and stories out there that make it seem like its an everyday occurrence.
Indeed there are quite a few videos that do make it seem like it is easy. But in retrospect, if we look at the sheer number of people that fly on any given day (according to IATA, back in 2014, 8 million people fly daily), the handful of people who get that free upgrade is a drop in the bucket. Another factor that I didn't touch on is the fact that sometimes people do get upgraded based for Marketing. If you have a larger following on social media, it is a great way for the airline to get free advertisement for the business class service. :)
Really Enjoyed this Video. Have heard to dress appropriately if you want the chance of an upgrade BUT being all Dressed Up Fancy will not comfirm you will get an Upgrade, thats where i am a little i dont know if i should dress up. I fly from Brisbane, Australia to LAX and thats a 13hr flight, so being Dressed Up in Fancy Clothes just get your Normal Economy Seat is not Cool at all, so i just Dress in Loose Short and Shirt. I did however get Upgraded from Economy to Economy X on a Flight back from LAX to Brisbane, Australia for free which i was greatful for though. But i will most definitely dress up more in hope to get an Upgrade at least to Business Class, maybe one day! So sorry to hear you got into a little Trouble Upgrading the Elderly Couple though, there still are People with Hearts out there and your Act proved that. ❤️ Thank You for Video Once again
I have yet to be upgraded on a flight, but back on February 23rd, 2019 the plane my fiance and I were supposed to take to Florida from Michigan was downgraded and so they were 30 people overbooked, after talking to my fiance's dad we were able to take another flight, that left earlier, but got in later. On the flight from DTW to Charlotte, North Carolina the gate agent asked a woman if she'd change seats so my fiance and I could sit together which the woman was very kind and switched seats Then from Charlotte, North Carolina there was the same problem again our seats weren't together so I spoke to the gate agent and the row where my fiance was supposed to sit there was no one else in that row so they told me I could sit in his row with him It was frontier that did the downgrading; we each got 400$ Future Flight Credits as compensation for the inconvenience, I wish I knew about these tips before we went!
Very good tips. I always check in at the desk and make small talk and try to make them laugh. Also, dressing very nice is a must. A well dressed personable guy will get pretty far with a female desk agent.
I try and get to the boarding gate as early as I can and sit as close to the check-in counter as I can, that way if they announce they have upgrades available, I can get there first or as soon as a clerk gets there, I go up and ask them quietly I would appreciate it if I could get an upgrade. Sometimes they are free if they have one, I did pay 40 bucks for one, but one thing I always do is if they get me an upgrade, I ALWAYS tip them 10 bucks. You should always tip your flight attendant as well. They get paid shit.
I was upgraded once to business class. I was with my mom flying from Frankfurt to Rio, and when we were getting on board, we were simply redirected to business. Probably because in our last flight, our luggage arrived one day after us.
I think it’s sad and disgusting that these Multi-BILLION dollar companies would suspend & withhold your pay because you did something so kind and I believe it may be very beneficial for the company in the long run. There may be individuals that received the free upgrade and enjoyed it so much that they purchased business/first class tickets 🎫 for future flights. Had they not ever had the opportunity of the free experience they might not have done so.
Does it help if you’re very tall? I’m 6.6 and so too tall for some seats. I’m currently an exchange student and it would be nice to get upgraded when I fly 9 hours to home to my family
A long winded way to say... "You won't" but dress for business class and make sure to talk to gate agents just in case a flight is oversold (because it's better for them to shift people to business class than to pay for people they couldn't find seats for in economy.) But the agent repurcussion thing is something to think about. Oh, another thing that ups chances might be NOT ordering a special meal, especially one based on an allergy.
A couple of summers ago I was taking my daughter and 2 grandchildren from BHM via LA to Sydney, Australia. I am Platinum Medallion with Delta. On the return trip from Sydney, as we passed through the boarding gate, we were all upgraded to Business Class....pajamas and all. All 3 were on my ticket, had ff miles but no medallion status. I learned they had over booked coach and underbooked business. Lucky for us. I still have the pajamas!
I once got bumped up to Business class from Manchester to Singapore on Singapore Airlines by Cabin Crew because after I boarded I agreed to swap seats (I had an empty seat next to me) just so that 2 friends on the same flight could sit next to each other.
My best friend and I were upgraded to first class on a flight from Miami to Ontario. We were dress appropriately and we have volunteered to be bumped from the flight.
I came back to Canada from Kenya last summer. Was connecting in Amsterdam to Toronto and was almost upgraded to business on KLM airways. I don't know why.. i wasn't even dressed for business but I cought their attention. The reason i wasnt moved is because i wasn't traveling alone. Oh so, so close
Finally an agent talking about this! All I can find are videos of pax so I don't really believe how it works. Thanks for the tips and I just have 1 question: how often do flights get oversold?
I suppose there's no harm in asking, but I think the expectation needs to be set that it is extremely unlikely that customers without elite status would be bumped up. Having had experience with the lowest tier of status with one airline, I know it's unlikely to get upgraded even with the lowest status. The airlines priortize elite status and how much you paid for your ticket, and there just aren't that many first/business class seats on a given flight. Maybe you'll get lucky and your plane will be swapped out with a transcon plane (where half the plane is business), but even then, it's still unlikely for non elites.
one time I got bumped to a later flight due to the plane having too many booked seats- I'm aware this happens sometimes. Delta airlines gave me: 1000$ credit on a future flight, bumped me to first class seat on the next flight out to same destination next morning, a penthouse suite for the night in a luxury local hotel , and 30$ in meal vouchers - 2 15$ vouchers. All because I volunteered to give up my seat. This isn't a standby is it? What is it called?
involuntary boarding or something? Also I dont understand how, if the flight is oversold, you can have a chance of sneaking into a better seat in business or whatever? like the flight is oversold and thus too many people, and they probs ask for colunteers to be bumped, but somehow this means a possibilit of being upgraded into business - but the flight oversold??? Im so confused...help!!!
I commented on this video last year. I am commenting again because I was flying with qatar airways from Doha to Boston and I asked the lady at the gate if the flight was overbooked, she checked and said yes. Is it OK if you give me seat to someone else and give me an upgrade. And guess what she said yes. I flew Qatar airways business class Qsuite for free. What you said in the video worked. Dress nicely is the key.
Wait so that's just before entering the plane or when ?
I got lucky one time so far in my travels. I was coming back from New Orleans and there was a family that wanted to sit together and they had small children. I was with my sister and Mom. The counter ppl asked over the intercom if there was anyone who was willing to switch seats 💺 so the family could stay together. After they made this announcement several times, my mom noticed how stressed the mom and Dad looked waiting by the counter. She asked me if my sis and I were willing to give up our seats so the young family could sit together. I didn’t mind so I walked up to the counter and traded our 3 seats. The ppl behind the counter were super appreciative. When they issued me our new seats they were regular seats all spread out for our first leg of the trip but after our lay over on the second leg of the trip back they bumped us up to First Class, something I never expected!!! Needless to say we all got first class and was seated together happy as 3 Larks!!!
I showed up late not due to my fault. And AEROFLOTgave me an upgrade to first without asking
08094denise Well, goody for you 🔨
I got a miraculous upgrade to Business class from Brisbane to Heathrow. I was going back alone for my fathers funeral after he committed suicide. I was so incredibly grateful and I hadn’t sought it out. Thank you Qantas!
I was upgraded on my birthday! To first class with emirates. I was full paying business ticket tho! But wow! Simply mind blowing! Had a Buttler for goodness sake! Dine on demand! 8years ago that was impressive!
I'm a platinum with Qantas and as such, I can get into the first class lounge in Dubai even if I'm travelling in economy. Did you go in there? Holy crap, that place is mind blowing.
My son was travelling with me and was pushing my wheelchair while we lined up in the check-in counter. They may me wait till the last and i was getting worried that the agent might have forgotten me..she didnt..she waited to upgrade us..because she said it was nice for my son to take me on a trip even i was handicapped..she was so kind..and i played it forward.
I was once upgraded on a British Airways flight from LHR to SFO. I work for a large hotel company, and the crew(s) stay at the hotel I work for in San Francisco during their layover. I simply introduced myself to one of the cabin crew as an associate of the hotel and told her that if there is anything I can do for the crew during the stay to let me know and gave her my business card. I wasn't expecting anything afterwards, but the cabin director approached me, asked me to grab my belongings and follow him. Passengers around me thought I was being escorted off the aircraft, but once passed the curtain forward of the aircraft, the cabin director pointed mew to a vacant seat in business class! Sure made my flight much more comfy, so I made sure to upgrade his stay to one of our nice suites for his 2 day layover. The price of the room doesn't compare to what people pay for a business class seat on a long haul, so I guess I was really lucky on this occasion.
I've been upgraded twice from coach to business class. I did not ask for an upgrade but was given one; the flights were crowded and I was dressed for success. Thanks for the pro tip of asking if the flight was overbooked; I'll try that😁😁
Very informative video. I recently got upgraded without asking on a 10 hour international flight. I found out that since I purchased my ticket close to departure I spent the most and was rewarded.
On our Honeymoon, we showed up at the gate wearing our wedding clothes. My wife was wearing her gown and I was in a tuxedo. The Gate Agent offered me an upgrade to First Class when I checked us in.After we were airborne, the Captain came on the intercom and asked the entire flight to give the first class passengers Dr. and Mrs., a round of applause for believing in love.My new wife was thoroughly impressed. Please don't tell her that I just got really lucky TWICE that day.I promise, I will tell her someday, maybe. : )
wlee55
wlee55 Maybe she has already knew, since you post it here.
Nice scam..worth a shot next trip😀😀😀😀
You was white right?
wlee55 You just HAD to identify yourself as a doctor in your comment, didn’t you? I’m a doctor, too. But I don’t mention it willy-nilly.
Watched and read many of the comments and replies. Good informative subject and delivery! I fly stand-by tickets as a close friend of an ex-American Airlines worker, so my ticket often says this tiny distinction, but I always tell the gate attendant that I have operated emergency doors if they need to put me by one and that I can sit wherever they need to move me to. Being dressed business casual and elderly and overweight and flying late in the evening I occasionally DO get a free upgrade, but I am not against paying the difference at the counter, but my flights usually cost less than $150, so it would be a big jump in cost for me. 10 years ago I was asked if I would like to upgrade after sitting in my Coach seat and I said, "Could you take my Wife here beside me instead of me? She has never got to fly in First before." Stewardess took her forward and came back later for me after they both had been crying. I never felt so bad for doing something nice.
I once got a free upgrade at the gate. We weren't on honeymoon, or celebrating anything, it was our first ever flight on that airline. To this day I don't know why we got upgraded. But it was amazing!
This was Virgin Atlantic - LGW-MCO. We got upgraded from economy to first, outbound.
Got upgraded during my Qatar Airways Flight New York to Doha. I was already seated in the economy class but was approached by the ground staff and said he will be moving me to Business Class. It was the most awesome thing I got to experience!
I used to work for Qatar Airways (as a flight attendant) and can confirm this is very normal for the airline to upgrade passengers from Economy to Business class on US flights. Glad you enjoyed the experience!
@@GkSinghGoogleTech yes it can happen actually on any flight. Generally all of the ones from the US have a greater chance.
@@katrinakaye7997 idk if you would know this, but if you book with qatar and they offer you an upgrade before the flight that you have to pay for, will the price always be a set price for anyone in economy on an upgradeable fare, or depending on what actual fare class you are on will it be cheaper or higher?
@@katrinakaye7997 is it possible to go from economy to business class on international flights?
@@Bigdaddy078 yes it is
I realize it's a slightly different thing but I always make sure to check-in online for my flights exactly 24 hours before the flight. Sometimes they will offer an inexpensive upgrade to Business or First but of course it's first come first served.
Most people say in order to upgrade you need to be loyal to 1 airline {and its partners}, and fly a LOT, but I like that you gave us tips that aren't complicated and easy to execute! I always dress nice and I have been upgraded on overseas flights twice for looking good! That is definitely a thing! Thanks for the tips!
Wow, me and my husband got upgraded to business class without asking. We knew that was a mistake, and asked the flight attended that we have not paid for upgrade. She smiled to us and she said that was a nice switch we received. She did not know it was our wedding anniversary, and we were coming from my sister funeral. We thank God and the person that gave us that wonderful gift that day. It was our first time in business class, and was supper comfortable. American airlines are the best. 😀 👍
One of the most level and authentic bits of advice on ‘free’ upgrades have seen yet. Thank you.
I remember me and my two preteen daughters were going on our first trip ever to Disney World from Philadelphia. I guess the Gate Agent saw how crazy excited we were and wanted to make our first plane trip ever and to Disney no doubt extra magical by upgrading us three to Business Class. My Daughters got to visit the cock pit, got the little Pilot Stickers and had a ball! This was 2011.
Thanks jonah hill
lmao, my friends keep telling me this. lol
I was thinking the same!!!
💀😂
Sorry to hear you were reprimanded but I'm glad you upgraded the elderly couple! The good karma is on your side!
+Gunnar thanks!! I didn't regret it for a second :)
You are the most honest guy in all the videos I saw so far on this subject. You somehow get the feeling that an upgrade is a sure thing which I find misleading. With you, it's different though. I'll be flying from Namibia-Windhoek to LA, the USA come 26 October. This will be only my third time flying and my first long haul international flight. Thanks for the video. To be honest I don't really care for business class. I only care for a window seat, which I actually already booked and paid for.
I was once upgraded to business class on Alitalia on a flight from Geneva to Bucharest via Milan. I was travelling with my cello and wanted to ask if I could do a gate check to help make sure my instument did not break. I did not book a seat for my cello but the ticket agent told me, "we at Alitalia value the arts and recognize your cello as your most valuable possession. We'll upgrade you to business class with a seat for your cello." My jaw was on the floor. I was dressed nicely, too, hehe.
I got upgraded once. The flight was delayed and so a lot of people were going to miss their connecting flight so they rebooked us on another flight the next morning. Some got very loud about this but they said since it was the start of our journey with them they could just tell us to come back. They didn't want us to be stranded mid journey as then they'd have to get us hotel rooms. I can't remember the stopover city, but the full journey was Seattle to San Antonio. I unfortunately lived on an island north of Seattle and had flown in a small plane (not any big company) to Boeing field and shuttled over to SeaTac and was stranded. I spoke with the agent calmly and politely but also didn't give up at the first no when I explained both the fact that I couldn't just go home until the next day and that I had a meeting that was scheduled to start before the flight was due to take off the next day. After a lot of calm discussion and saying I was happy to have as many stopovers as needed in order to fly that day, she had me fly to Houston then Dallas and then San Antonio and the Seattle to Houston part she upgraded me to first! It wasn't super fancy, but a nicer seat and I got to fly that day while all the angry shouty people didn't so no complaints from me!
You gave great info. As a former employee of an airline myself, I can concur about how they feel about giving away business class seats.
I was once upgraded from coach to business on a 9 hour transatlantic overnight flight and it was AMAZING
The downside? It makes economy hurt that much more forever afterwards.
Great video. You are right about dressing appropriately. I have been upgraded on many occasions due to dressing in business attire, about 8 times in fact. It is also important to be aware of the best time to travel. I also find that it is important to be genuinely kind to the agents. These people work hard and are often under appreciated. A kind words goes a long way.
I can understand your point. However, given the situations that lead to me being upgraded, I observed the number of people requesting complimentary upgrade and I noted that those who where dressed in business attire fared better than those who were more casually attired. In fact I have never observed those that were casually attired receiving complimentary upgrades. However, your mileage may vary.
Sad people still judge others over the clothes on thhere back! I dress plain and humble. I also have health issues and I have to lay down after so many hrs in a day. But sadly can't afford first class
@@vacationboyvideos Although I have compassion for your health issues, I do find a modicum of being *clean* and not showing up in ripped jeans or deep-cut outfits or just looking scruffy a matter of *respect* towards not being *at home * lazying on your couch where no-one cars if you haven't showered in three days, have stubble or your hair looking like a frickin' jungle. For all *I* care you can lay naked on your couch. It's none of my business. HowEVER, having to sit next to someone for 8+ hours in a *very* confined space with someone who makes you *uncomfortable* due to their scruffy appearance has *nothing* to do with 'judging' people by their clothes but is a *lack* of courtesy towards your environment and where you expect to be treated respectfully in spite of looking as if you've just fallen out of bed. I betcha my bottom dollah you wouldn't want to have someone cater and serve you your food by someone who looks unkempt, is smelly and has torn, dirty and scruffy clothing.
But that's just me. Right?
@@MandalayMoore33 YES!!! Preach it!!
@@MandalayMoore33
I'm a female solo traveler. I often dress down so that I'm not targeted by pickpockets and such. So, because I dress down, I can't get a free upgrade? Hmm. Damn if I do, damn if I don't.
I think joining frequent flyer program is essential. I have been upgraded three times in past 4 years going from Doha to Houston or the other way around on Qatar airways, which is 16 hour flight. I do have a habit telling the check in agent that, "if you upgrade people because the flight is oversold, I want to be considered."
My 18-year old son was upgraded on his last trip from Connecticut to California. He recently enlisted in the US Navy and was wearing his Navy sweatshirt. The gate agent asked him about it and he let her know he signed up and was going to boot camp in the summer. She upgraded him at no extra charge and made his day.
I would think a savvy airline would see the benefit of having a reputation for occasionally giving free upgrades, because people would be inclined to choose to fly with that airline over their competitors.
I have personally seen 2 instances where passengers were upgraded into First Class on an International long haul flight.
The first occasion was when Business class was oversold so the gate agents upgraded the " Global Elite"... The second time was when 2 seats in Business class didn't recline (lay flat type seats) so they upgraded those 2 passengers into First Class.
I was upgraded to first class once when I was 15 years old. I don't really know why they picked me, I wasn't a frequent flyer or anything. They had the extra seat available, and actually the seats across from me stayed empty the whole flight. A pilot sat next to me and we had an interesting conversation. It was great, and right up front.
Who bought your ticket? That was what in the system that got you the upgrade. It is never random!
I got upgraded once on a Lufthansa flight from Bangkok to Munich, but I had purchased an upgrade on my first leg with Thai from Melbourne to Bangkok. I had Silver status with Thai Star Alliance. There was kind of an indication that something was up when I checked-in at Melbourne, where I was advised I couldn’t be checked in for the second leg, although I they were able to confirm me on the flight. When I went to the transfer desk in Bangkok, there was no fuss or mention of an upgrade but my boarding pass was for seat 11A...and had written on it ‘no lounge’! I was also on a Star Alliance Round the World fare which may have helped a little too. On my second last leg San Francisco to Auckland on Air New Zealand, I was offered an upgrade for US$900, which I didn’t take. Again I was offered an upgrade on the last leg Auckland to Melbourne for NZ$150, which I took.
These days if I’m traveling alone I pretty much only fly business or premium economy, there is no stress that way. I am happy in economy if I am traveling with someone.
I'm planning on travelling to the US from the UK next spring - my first long haul flight for about 12 years, so I've been haunting RUclips looking for tips of all sorts. This is the first piece on upgrades I've seen that seems honest - all the others pretty much imply that upgrades are there for the asking! Thanks for what comes across as a realistic view. I've subscribed in the expectation of more properly helpful info - keep up the good work.
I've flown a few million miles had my share of bumps, upgrades and so on. This was probably one or the best and most honest videos I've seen on the subject. Too bad my current shuttle is 3.5 hours and seems to be packed 99 percent of the time and no option for bump unless you want to go the next day if there is even a seat that day. I once got bumped and it took a week to find me a seat. Thanks for the refresher.
Thanks for your informational video :) i myself got upgraded to business class recently from my vacation. What i did is i booked the ticket directly from the airline, i did not use kayak or other agent. then they sent me an email offering me if i want to upgrade, it's not a free upgrade though, you need to do an online bidding. i guess i'm the highest bidder :) or who know i'm the only one they upgrade, because we are less than 10 in business class. So, 24 hrs before the flight they upgraded me. It's a very nice experience, though pricey but it's worth it!
Great information! And yes, I heard about this online bidding process. A few airlines are trying it out and it seems great!! Totally agree that it is worth it!
Norwegian and Air Canada has bidding.
Delta sent me an email a month ago but it wasn't a bid, it was a set price.
Barnali D was the price significant cheaper than their regular price?
A flew from Milan to Copenhagen couple years ago, and they overbooked the flight. Since I was alone on the flight, I was offered to sit in the cockpit with captain and co-pilot the whole flight :)
Thats amazing man!
Omg!
Back in '94 when I was 9 yrs old my mom, younger sister and I were flying home from a Colorado ski trip. On the leg from Stapleton to O'Hare, American Airlines upgraded my younger sister & I in first class because economy was full and didn't have room there for a family of 3 seated together. I don't recall much of the hospitality but I did enjoy the double chocolate chip cookies!
I was flying to Qatar from Manchester, our pilot borrowed my charger before the boarding. We had a brief chat, never expected a upgrade but got given a upgrade. I’d say never expect to get an upgrade but be polite and nice to everyone you speak at the airport, if you’re lucky then you might get one.
I flew home from New York last month and on our way back, we randomly got upgraded! Nice video though! Thanks!
🙌🏻 thank you for explaining this!!! As a flight attendant I cannot tell you how many times I get asked for upgrades!!!! Like you said, I would love to upgrade everyone too!!! But at the end of the day...my job is on the line!
So glad you explain how and why upgrades happen or don’t happen! 👍🏼
Thanks!! And I completely agree. It sucks to say no and it makes it even harder when someone thinks that you are saying no because you just don’t want to!
I was bumped up to First Class (from economy!) on a flight to Toronto with Air Canada a few years ago. It was only a short flight, but it was pretty darn nice flight for sure!
My dad was a minster, always wore his dog collar when flying. Heaps of upgrades for him. When economy seems uncomfortable I remind myself "at least it isn't a Hercules and you don't you don't have to get off till it lands"
At least it wasn't a C123, I couldn't wait to jump out, I wasn't sure it would stay together for the whole flight.
I'm a Diamond member with Scandinavia Airlines, been upgraded multipel Times. Both when The flight has been oversold but Also so called "complementary upgrades". However I normally book 75% in high price tickets so offen I am already in business Class or First Class. But those times I am stuck in Economy and i Do get the upgrade Its wonderful.
And Also to add, i dont expect to be upgraded, I always say: Book The Class you want to fly, that way you wont get disapointed :)
Great video btw!
Thanks Simon! That's exactly it, Scandinavia Airlines is doing it right!! It helps build customer loyalty! And I agree, if you really want Business, book it! Never bank on getting to upgrade.
I got a free upgrade on ameican airlines to first class to Guatemala to Dallas then to boston the gate agent was very nice and helpful
Within 2 years of joining BA, I was very randomly upgraded to club world LHR-LAX or viceversa 4 different times. Silver member the whole time. Definitely my favourite airline
my girlfriend and I were upgraded to Business Class on Qatar Airways yesterday from Phuket to Paris ! It was insane ! When we arrived to drop off our luggages, the women said that the flight was full and she upgraded us to Business ! I don't know why but it was an amazing experience ! Qatar Airways Business Class is just insane and so comfy
Thanks for the video. You'll probably be rewarded your whole lifetime for helping the elderly folks. You gave me an idea just to volunteer to be upgraded, if more seats are needed in Economy. Had not thought of that.
Several years ago we planned a trip of a lifetime to England & Scotland. We planned & saved for this trip over 2 yrs-We purchased Premium Economy on British Airways from Michigan to London-when we arrived at check in we were informed we were upgraded to Business Class. It was a wonderful surprise & experience. BTW--British Airways is fabulous!!!
I can't believe that you got suspended for doing "good deeds".
And no, you can't just drive down to Florida, if you live in Oregon. It will take you DAYS
My husband and I got lucky, flying from Australia to Hong Kong, with Cathay Pacific we were told at the gate they had upgraded us to business class. Love Cathay Pacific great airline. We have traveled with Emirates to uk on 3 different occasions never offered an upgrade. So our next Visit we are giving Qatar a try instead of Emirates, as Emirates to get frequent flyer you have to fly every year. Only the rich can afford every year.! So will keep you posted on Qatar,
I flew Qatar Airways from JFK to Qatar City (not my final destination - just a plane change) and I will never fly that airline again. Although the flight attendants were very kind, I didn't know that all alcohol was forbidden both on that airline as well as in that country. If you enjoy a glass of wine with your meals when flying, pick another airline. The Saudi Arabian airline, and country, enforces the same rule FYI.
I got a free upgrade once. I informed the gate agent I was a disabled vet. I just asked for seats that were closer to the front of the plane. I did not expect first class.
I'll try that in September, flying AA to Santo Domingo with my service dog..
My wife and I fly A LOT. Not business class road warrior but still a lot. I've only sat in first class once because a couple wanted my seat so they could sit together. Delta is our preferred airline and we use their credit card. We charge everything possible to that card. We pay the balance when due so we have no card fees. We will generally upgrade to Comfort Plus for the leg room and drinks are included. We will use the Sky Lounge because it just as cheap as lunch in another restaurant. The points really pile up. The last time we bought flights my wife purchased 5 flights for each of us (10 total) for $600. When you board just look at those sitting in first class, many are dressed like hell. Usually our flights are under 2 1/2 hrs so I always remind myself that the back of the plane arrives just a fraction of a second after the front.
Very good info on why the desk clerk wont upgrade from both sides of the fence. Thanks
Really liked the video. Thanks for the inside scoop on upgrades. What I've found is that being nice and appreciative goes a long way. I fly Southwestern so there really are no upgrades to be had. (Business class puts you up front but I like the rear of the plane - more opportunity for an empty seat next to you.) So it's not flirting with an agent or FA but just awareness of what they do; a lot of which is invisible to passengers. Pre-emptive calming down nervous, combative, drunk passengers. Keeping dogs under control. Working with kids in a lot of ways that is not in the job description. And the same understanding for all staff: gate agents, the check-in staff and the poor managers who have to take the guff from passengers who miss a flight or have a flight canceled. All for 3500 a month. But for me being nice goes a long way. Thanks so much for the vlog and you bet I subscribed
Rational approach.if I get a free upgrade I’m lucky just glad to be flying with a decent airline Virgin to Sydney on my first long haul for my son’s wedding next week
I got upgraded to premium economy on my flight from LGW to HKG on Cathay Pacific because there was a big group of English students onboard.
Me, my parents and my two younger brothers all got upgraded on a British Airways flight from Florida to London. Have no idea why, just our lucky day I guess
That's incredible! A nice long haul flight on a great airline! Sometimes you just happen to be in the right place at the right time! How did you like the flight?
PaleBlueDotTravel I have a flight that's 22 hours (including a stop over) and I cannot be assed to do that in economy you gotta help me
Lol
That happened to us from San Francisco-NYC years ago with Delta, and for some reason 8 of us got tickets through United on coach from Costa Rica - San Francisco, but for some reason they ticketed them on 1st. We still don't know why.
I think I only wore a suit [without tie, it was in my pocket] once on an actual flight. I had to do a short 5 hour flight to Singapore [sardine class] before I got on my Business class seat at Changi on the way to London. I was unlucky, and some guy next vomited on me. Luckily I had a change of clothes, which was pretty casual [track suit pants] for the Business class leg!
Free upgrades are pretty damn rare, and I would rather be comfortable. Turbulence often guarantees food and drink will be spilt on your clothes, and of course you use wipes and tissues to try to clean up, but it is simply not worth dressing well on a plane. At the other end, i will get out my good clothes, and catch a shower and shave if possible. Changing into clean, fresh clothes is psychologically better for you anyway, because most people feel pretty mouldy after a long trip. I try not to look like a tramp on board nevertheless, but comfort rather than fashion is more of a priority for me. The cabin crew know that I normally dress well because I have a suit bag which I ask them to stash when I get on the plane.
I dream of a day where i can fly first class on either Emirates or Singaporean Airline
Singapore is amazing in economy 😍
A friend managed to get upgraded to first class by missing his flight. :) The last plane on that route that day on a different airline they had agreement with was fully booked in economy and business, but had free first class seats. So to put him on that flight, he first got upgraded to first class on his missed flight, then he was transferred to the other flight.
Great info. Yes we were upgraded few times , with out asking at the gate
So, for the casual traveler, there's no chance !?
yea its very slim at least
Im a flight attendant for air canada and i also work at the boarding desk depending on the airport, We have specific rules when it comes to upgrades, if the flight is empty we consider bumping up passengers for upgrades, also theres people who are in the Aeroplan (frequent flyers) program if your even in that with the lowest status your going to be picked 99% of the time above of them. So Yes, its almost inpossible for the casual flyers
@@busterobe i’m going on a flight later in the year with my family and i am not a frequent flyer however my dad is, and we have a 2 year old child flying with me. would you say that if my father were to approach with his flyer miles he would be more likely to get it or because there are 4 people going we are not likely to get it?
@@baseprice4324 No i personally wouldnt. The best you could to get a upgrade would pretty much be if your flight has to much passengers set up and offer your seats and you might get upgraded
I'd not flown since 1988 because of a bad experience with turbulence. In May when I flew to meet a friend in Nashville. I was held up at the boarding gate while I was waiting for assistance, I waited so long the plane was held up for 15 minutes. I was taken onto the plane expecting to get dirty looks for boarding last, to my amazement I was escorted to business class, I didn't know what to expect but I didn't lie down, I didn't accept the champagne nor did I take anything other than the meal because I was still scared due to my last bad experienced. I can't say the flight back home was anything to brag about.
Amazing that you have that whole plane to yourself. wow.
I was upgraded once because the flight was oversold.
A year later I was downgraded because of basically the same reason. I had paid for the upgrade at the counter before boarding as I’d had recent hip replacement surgery and just wanted to be comfortable my seat was 1A. . Once seated as the plane was preparing for take off an attendant asked me to move back to a middle seat in row 27. I explained that reason I had paid for the upgrade and was basically ignored. I was told that I would be forcefully removed from the plane if I did not comply. As an attendant handed me my cane and escorted me back to 27B, she told me that my seat was given to an Air Marshal .Even though I complained, I was never compensated for the loss of the higher paid ticket or apologized to in any way. That was eight years ago..
Cool. Now I know all the reasons why I'll never get an upgrade. You should do a video on how to get an upgrade. That would be cool.
I’ll save you some time. Crack open the wallet ;)
We got upgraded because our original seat was bulkhead with extra leg space. However there was a young lady flying with her therapy dog and the dog needed the extra space. This felt extra special because I was flying to my brother’ funeral.
Very helpful. Thank you!
Hi PaleBlueDotTravel, I was upgrade 2/3 years ago. I asked if there is any upgrades available, they said they will check. The waited till just before boarding to call me to the desk and handed me my new boarding pass. I was ecstatic. It seems from the long procedure that they have cleared it with someone not just 1 gate agent acting by herself. Philippino's aren't ones for breaking the rules. I flew upgraded Business from Clark - Dubai on Emirates and I loved it. Sadly I had a cold at that time and struggled to sleep, even on my nice Business class bed.
Thanks for this perspective!
I go to the airport dressed nicely every single flight i take. I ask the check-in agent for an upgrade. Then i go and ask the gate agent if it's oversold or if there's any chance of an upgrade. Then i will change into comfy sweatpants as soon as boarding starts.
Usually, asking the question with a polite smile 'do I qualify for a free upgrade please' never really works just on it's own. It's how you are dressed as well as frequent flyer status and whether the flight is over sold in economy class or not. The airline's loyal frequent flyers will be the ones to receive a complimentary upgrade, then it is based on the fare and ticket class paid.
We sometime fly Emirates and they sometimes offer an upgrade at a discounted price; without lounge access. We thought that by booking an economy on a A380 our chances would be better. Well of course not. All of economy would need to be filled before offering selected upgrade to business; even of business is not full. We did have a vacant middle seat for a poor man's business.
Nice tips I appreciate it.
Two weeks ago I had an emergency trip to Europe. Purchased a Lufthansa premium economy ticket a day before my flight to Germany but purchased business on the return flight. When I woke up and checked on my flight status app it showed I was in business on their 747 instead of my chosen premium economy seat.
I didn't ask for anything and did it all online being a miles and more member. I agree with everything you said you just have to get lucky and not expect anything.
Lufthansa is great to fly with their service is great, the seats in my opinion in business lag a bit behind the top industry standard. But their flight crew is amazing and more than makes up for it.
Hope this helps. Sub'd.
I ALMOST ALWAYS get an UPGRADE to first class BECAUSE....I learned a long time about PROPER DRESS ATTIRE and my last name is the same as a very famous person in Hollywood...they always ask me if I'm related and I always put my fingers to my lips and say shhhhh. It works almost every time unless it is someone that doesn't know this celebrity. It also helps to almost always check in with the desk agent and get real friendly with them and act like you know them. I also give out 5 dollar Starbucks Gift Cards to the Sky Cap's plus cash.THEY will get you into the AIRPORT CLUB and you will get FREE FOOD AND DRINKS!!! If you are just "NICE" it makes someone else day and it also keeps me from being stripped searched and no TSA long lines because I get pre approved. If at first I don't get first class when I check in I volunteer to pay the difference and they look at me and say the magic words that won't be necessary... do you want an aisle or a window seat and I say... is the first row available..they say yes and I say window seat please....then they print out my First Class Boarding Pass. I also ALWAYS display my PASSPORT that shows that I'm a world traveler and they simply say enjoy your flight and ask do I need a ride to the gate. YOU MUST BE NICE AND FRIENDLY!!!
RETTAVISION OMG! I need to learn this tactic. I’m always nice, only received one first class upgrade tho!
I've never heard of SkyCap being able to get your into an airport lounge. Couldn't find anything online about it either. Are you saying SkyCap gives you passes or something? I don't get how that's possible. Would love to know more.
I got upgraded wearing jeans and hiking boots. I didnt bribe or talk to anyone at ANY point so... maybe a tired, about to drop walking to the plane, look works.
DEFINETLY A REAL STORY 😂
@@milanamusings Real imaginary story you mean,LMAO
Thank you for debunking free upgrades fantasies! Very useful and resourceful info 🥰
The very first flight that I took within the US, I got lucky traveling from Philly to ATL WITH MY PARENTS! Granted it was a light day but I wasn't expecting American to upgrade us especially since it was the three of us!
I would like to say that I would usually fly in coach/economy, but during one of the my trips, my flight was canceled, but I wanted to fly to my destination on the earliest flight possible, but there were no seats left in the coach/economy, but there was a seat available in First Class. I didn't know that I was going to be in First Class initially as I didn't get my ticket handed to me at the counter, but when I was given the ticket, I was like, um.. are you sure that I am allowed to be there to the counter agent and they told me that it was the only seat available and that they don't want to do compensation as what was stated in the video. Anyways, I only considered myself to be lucky and that I would have to do more flying before I am able to get an upgrade. Also, I am aspired to become a pilot, so I don't even have to think about the class as they are all behind and I am in control of the aircraft and that without me, they won't be going to their destinations (just a personally feeling).
Question... I fly to international often and regular economy tickets are like $700... then I'm asked if I want to move to business for $5000-10000. Like how does that make sense? Does Britney Spears and Kim Kardashian come over and dance for you? It's an insane price difference. I'm paying $500-1000/hour to be able to lie down instead of sitting.
My client wearing his national sports uniform and carrying a big trophy got given a free upgrade without asking. Now everytime he travels long distance he tries the same tactic and he says it works 60% of the time.
405 angry passengers who didn't get an upgrade disliked this video. Come on guys, one can't get more honest than this.
My seat was given to some one else when I had bought the ticket 6 months in advance. They down graded me and gave me an isle instead of my window. After being told there was no other option for me I watched as the gate agents slowly went and upgraded a bunch of random people before my eyes. United sucks ass.
BasqueOblivion it doesn't matter when you bought your ticket, what is your status on UAL?
Oh United 😭
American is better
yes, United DOES suck
I hate United airlines
I usually fly to Germany once every year or so to visit relatives. My parents usually buy me economy class. I do understand though, that you can afford only so much. However, I have a very hard time sleeping on those flights. Let’s just say, I’m awake the whole eight hour flight. Same thing goes on the way back to the United States, awake the whole eight and a half hours, nine hour flight.
Hey thanks for the good info. I know its usually pretty difficult to just randomly get a free upgrade but there's tons of videos and stories out there that make it seem like its an everyday occurrence.
Indeed there are quite a few videos that do make it seem like it is easy. But in retrospect, if we look at the sheer number of people that fly on any given day (according to IATA, back in 2014, 8 million people fly daily), the handful of people who get that free upgrade is a drop in the bucket. Another factor that I didn't touch on is the fact that sometimes people do get upgraded based for Marketing. If you have a larger following on social media, it is a great way for the airline to get free advertisement for the business class service. :)
Thanks for taking the time out to do this Appreciate it.
Really Enjoyed this Video. Have heard to dress appropriately if you want the chance of an upgrade BUT being all Dressed Up Fancy will not comfirm you will get an Upgrade, thats where i am a little i dont know if i should dress up. I fly from Brisbane, Australia to LAX and thats a 13hr flight, so being Dressed Up in Fancy Clothes just get your Normal Economy Seat is not Cool at all, so i just Dress in Loose Short and Shirt. I did however get Upgraded from Economy to Economy X on a Flight back from LAX to Brisbane, Australia for free which i was greatful for though. But i will most definitely dress up more in hope to get an Upgrade at least to Business Class, maybe one day! So sorry to hear you got into a little Trouble Upgrading the Elderly Couple though, there still are People with Hearts out there and your Act proved that. ❤️ Thank You for Video Once again
I have yet to be upgraded on a flight, but back on February 23rd, 2019 the plane my fiance and I were supposed to take to Florida from Michigan was downgraded and so they were 30 people overbooked, after talking to my fiance's dad we were able to take another flight, that left earlier, but got in later.
On the flight from DTW to Charlotte, North Carolina the gate agent asked a woman if she'd change seats so my fiance and I could sit together which the woman was very kind and switched seats
Then from Charlotte, North Carolina there was the same problem again our seats weren't together so I spoke to the gate agent and the row where my fiance was supposed to sit there was no one else in that row so they told me I could sit in his row with him
It was frontier that did the downgrading; we each got 400$ Future Flight Credits as compensation for the inconvenience, I wish I knew about these tips before we went!
Very good tips. I always check in at the desk and make small talk and try to make them laugh. Also, dressing very nice is a must. A well dressed personable guy will get pretty far with a female desk agent.
I try and get to the boarding gate as early as I can and sit as close to the check-in counter as I can, that way if they announce they have upgrades available, I can get there first or as soon as a clerk gets there, I go up and ask them quietly I would appreciate it if I could get an upgrade. Sometimes they are free if they have one, I did pay 40 bucks for one, but one thing I always do is if they get me an upgrade, I ALWAYS tip them 10 bucks. You should always tip your flight attendant as well. They get paid shit.
I was upgraded once to business class. I was with my mom flying from Frankfurt to Rio, and when we were getting on board, we were simply redirected to business. Probably because in our last flight, our luggage arrived one day after us.
I think it’s sad and disgusting that these Multi-BILLION dollar companies would suspend & withhold your pay because you did something so kind and I believe it may be very beneficial for the company in the long run. There may be individuals that received the free upgrade and enjoyed it so much that they purchased business/first class tickets 🎫 for future flights. Had they not ever had the opportunity of the free experience they might not have done so.
Does it help if you’re very tall? I’m 6.6 and so too tall for some seats. I’m currently an exchange student and it would be nice to get upgraded when I fly 9 hours to home to my family
so, youd say, "is there another seat available in business?" {if its an oversold flight}
A long winded way to say... "You won't" but dress for business class and make sure to talk to gate agents just in case a flight is oversold (because it's better for them to shift people to business class than to pay for people they couldn't find seats for in economy.)
But the agent repurcussion thing is something to think about.
Oh, another thing that ups chances might be NOT ordering a special meal, especially one based on an allergy.
A couple of summers ago I was taking my daughter and 2 grandchildren from BHM via LA to Sydney, Australia. I am Platinum Medallion with Delta. On the return trip from Sydney, as we passed through the boarding gate, we were all upgraded to Business Class....pajamas and all. All 3 were on my ticket, had ff miles but no medallion status. I learned they had over booked coach and underbooked business. Lucky for us. I still have the pajamas!
Would agents still remember who is well-dressed after check-in time is over in deciding who gets the free upgrade?
I once got bumped up to Business class from Manchester to Singapore on Singapore Airlines by Cabin Crew because after I boarded I agreed to swap seats (I had an empty seat next to me) just so that 2 friends on the same flight could sit next to each other.
My best friend and I were upgraded to first class on a flight from Miami to Ontario. We were dress appropriately and we have volunteered to be bumped from the flight.
I came back to Canada from Kenya last summer. Was connecting in Amsterdam to Toronto and was almost upgraded to business on KLM airways. I don't know why.. i wasn't even dressed for business but I cought their attention. The reason i wasnt moved is because i wasn't traveling alone. Oh so, so close
Finally an agent talking about this! All I can find are videos of pax so I don't really believe how it works. Thanks for the tips and I just have 1 question: how often do flights get oversold?
I suppose there's no harm in asking, but I think the expectation needs to be set that it is extremely unlikely that customers without elite status would be bumped up. Having had experience with the lowest tier of status with one airline, I know it's unlikely to get upgraded even with the lowest status. The airlines priortize elite status and how much you paid for your ticket, and there just aren't that many first/business class seats on a given flight. Maybe you'll get lucky and your plane will be swapped out with a transcon plane (where half the plane is business), but even then, it's still unlikely for non elites.
one time I got bumped to a later flight due to the plane having too many booked seats- I'm aware this happens sometimes. Delta airlines gave me: 1000$ credit on a future flight, bumped me to first class seat on the next flight out to same destination next morning, a penthouse suite for the night in a luxury local hotel , and 30$ in meal vouchers - 2
15$ vouchers. All because I volunteered to give up my seat. This isn't a standby is it? What is it called?
involuntary boarding or something? Also I dont understand how, if the flight is oversold, you can have a chance of sneaking into a better seat in business or whatever? like the flight is oversold and thus too many people, and they probs ask for colunteers to be bumped, but somehow this means a possibilit of being upgraded into business - but the flight oversold??? Im so confused...help!!!
@@miscgloryofficial4527 not sure. Maybe just a bonus given for willing to give up my seat and take a future flight ✈️