flying on saturday at 10 would love an upgrade, whats the best way to try
2006-08-02 22:41:36 · 7 answers · asked by owend_2000 1 in Travel ➔ United States ➔ San Francisco
This is what expert Martin Lewis suggests http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/cgi-bin/viewnews.cgi?newsid1118059384,68459,
Tips on what to do
Be polite and friendly
Upgrades are usually at the discretion of check-in staff so a bit of flirtatious charm can go a long way.
Be subtle and discrete
Staff are unlikely to upgrade you if other customers are within earshot. “Have you got seats anywhere else on the plane?” is a rather nice way of asking for an upgrade, or alternatively request “an aisle seat next to the window!” – think about it!
Scrub up well
Staff will prioritise customers who look the part, so that rules out any jeans and beach wear - however much you’re in the mood for a tropical holiday! There’s no need to wear a full suit as this can be uncomfortable on long flights; smart trousers and a shirt should do it.
Join a frequent flier programme
If you’re a frequent flier, then you should definitely consider becoming a member. After all they’re completely free to sign up to and usually you’ll be given priority over low fare economy ticket holders when upgrades are available or necessary.
Get friendly with staff
Having friends or family who work for the airline will always help. Also, if you regularly fly on the same route, get to know the staff and they’ll be more likely to keep you in mind.
Avoid regular business hours
Flying during the working day obviously means more business people taking up seats and less opportunity for you to fill them. If possible, fly at the weekend or unusual hours to increase your chances.
Fly on planes with larger first class sections
It goes without saying the more first class seats there are, the more likely it is you’ll get one. You can either check the airline’s website or use a site like www.seatguru.com to investigate a specific plane’s layout.
Get bumped off
Companies often over-book flights, especially in busy times like school holidays, and hope people will cancel or not turn up. Then they’ll ask passengers to voluntarily fly on the next available flight and more than likely offer you an upgrade as well as compensation for the inconvenience. (If you’re flight has been delayed new rules mean you’re entitled to compensation, see Compensation for Delayed Flights).
Celebrate in style
If you’re celebrating a special occasion like your honeymoon always let the staff know. A good tip is to take your marriage certificate with you so you can prove it. You never know, you may get lucky!
Use Frequent Flyer Miles
If you prefer a guaranteed way to travel in comfort without shelling out, you can always use your Frequent Flyer miles to top up the flight.
Ditch the family!
It’s easier to get upgrades when you’re travelling on your own. Families and groups aren’t likely to be offered them.
Chat up the travel agent
Try and get the travel agent to annotate your booking with SFU (suitable for upgrade) or CIP (commercially important passenger), while it won’t assure an upgrade, it should increase your chances.
Marry a pilot!
It speaks for itself!
What Not To Do
Be demanding
While it might work for celebrities, having an attitude isn’t going to warm the staff to you and they’ll be less inclined to give you an upgrade.
Undersell yourself
While this won’t definitely secure you an upgrade, if you’re a Doctor or Reverend, make sure you book with this on the ticket. Some peoples’ experiences suggest this will help you on your way to getting a luxury seat.
2006-08-02 22:58:33 · answer #1 · answered by MissBehave 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
do not wear jeans but dress casual and clean. If you have any upgrade coupons or extra mileage (if you are a frequent flyer) use them.
Tell the ticket agent and the purser (flight attendant supervisor) you are on your honeymoon, if there is a possibility for an upgrade because you want to make the flight a special one.
Congrats and best of luck.
2006-08-02 22:54:33 · answer #2 · answered by Joseph N 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dress smartly and be polite! I believe that it is nigh on impossible to get an upgrade these days though. If you manage it let us know, I'm getting married in September and going on honeymoon then.
Good luck with the wedding and the upgrade!
2006-08-02 22:47:52 · answer #3 · answered by ehc11 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
On United? Good luck. Bring a pillow for your neck.
Unless it is a really empty flight, I doubt you will get into upper class.
2006-08-03 11:32:13 · answer #4 · answered by Education_is_future 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Address the Gate Agent by name
Dress to impress (no jeans, flip-flops, etc)
Make them aware you are newlyweds
Be VERY polite and arrive early !!!!
Good Luck and Best wishes
2006-08-03 05:30:46 · answer #5 · answered by LJRobbie 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Look very smart (don't wear jeans) and make sure you let the check-in staff know you're on honeymoon.
Congratulations!
2006-08-02 22:44:59 · answer #6 · answered by Away With The Fairies 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
care for a scone?
2006-08-02 22:45:05 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋