10 Insider Secrets to Getting a Flight Upgrade

Ever wonder how people get upgraded to business class? It's not just luck! Here are 10 simple tips to boost your chances of getting a flight upgrade, from flying at the right time to being a loyal customer.

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Manisha |Aug 6, 2025

Who doesn't like a business class upgrade? When it comes to air travel, upgrading to business or first class may significantly enhance your travel experience. Whether you are a frequent flyer or a casual traveller, knowing how to maximise these options can transform your travel experience. An upgrade on flight adds comfort and convenience to your journey, and knowing how to get a flight upgrade may make even long-haul travel hours feel easy and stress free.

In this guide, we will look into recognized tips and tricks to help you get that upgrade on your next flight!

Frequent Flyer Tricks to Increase your Chances of Getting an Upgrade

If you have ever wondered how to get a flight upgrade, read on for smart flight upgrade tips that actually work which are as follows:

1. Become a Loyal Flyer

The most reliable approach to gain an upgrade is to achieve elite status in an airline's frequent flyer program. Airlines prioritise their most loyal customers for upgrades.

Choose an airline that you fly frequently and stick with it to earn miles and status. Enrol in their airline's loyalty program and start earning miles through flights and other activities.

2. Fly During Off-Peak Hours or Days

Flights that are less likely to be full have the additional options for upgrades. Consider flying at off-peak hours, such as in Midweek, Tuesday and Wednesday which are typically less hectic than other days.

Early mornings or late nights flights during these times the flights are lower in demand. And avoid busy travel times, such as big holidays, when flights are more likely to be full.

3. Be Polite and Professional

A nice and courteous approach goes a long way. Always be patient and kind to airline employees, including check-in staff and flight attendants. A happy and positive attitude can help you stand out as a candidate for an advancement.

4. Check-in Early

In addition to assuring your preferred seat, checking in early adds your name to a list of gate agents. You will be among the first to be considered if upgrades become available for overbooking or in other situations.

5. Travel Alone

For solo travellers, upgrades are usually simpler than for larger families or groups. To increase your chances, if your travel schedule is flexible, consider about flying alone.

6. Use Your Miles

Upgrade your trip if you have miles earned in your frequent flyer account. Depending on the availability and status, several airlines offer mileage upgrades at a discounted rate or sometimes for free.

7. Look for Upgrade Offers

Some airlines provide paid upgrade choices during check-in or via their mobile apps. These deals can be an affordable option to upgrade to business class.

8. Follow Airlines on Social Media

Follow airlines accounts on social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, Instagram to stay up to date on their promotions and upgrade options. Sometimes airlines announce unique upgrade offers or contests for their followers.

9. Be Flexible with Your Travel Plans

Flexibility in your trip dates and times can improve your chances of being upgraded. If you are ready to fly on different days or take alternate flights, you may be able to get an upgrade to a less crowded aircraft.

10. Use Credit Card Perks for Free Upgrades

Some premium credit cards offer complimentary upgrades or companion seats as a bonus. Check your credit card benefits to determine whether you are qualified for a complimentary business-class or first-class upgrade.

Book Through the FlyFi App

You can earn FlyPoints based on the number of miles you travel by scanning your boarding pass with the FlyFi app flight deals option. These points can be used for exciting prizes, making your flight more rewarding each time. Additionally, FlyFi frequently offers upgrades and special flight discounts that you won't want to miss.

Takeaways:

With smart planning and discovering how to obtain a flight upgrade is easy and can greatly improve your chances for upgrade. Every suggestion gets you one step closer to that desired upgrade, from obtaining loyalty status to taking advantage of credit card benefits and maintaining flexibility. Always look into your options and keep a watch out for airline offers on the upgrades. If you take the proper approach, you might end up flying in an exclusive upgrade soon.