It’s the one thing most flight passengers want but can’t have – the chance to turn left on a plane and make their trip at 38,000ft a whole lot more comfortable.
With business and first class tickets often priced at thousands above the cost of a seat at the back of the plane, they remain accessible only to the wealthy, or business travellers whose companies will foot the bill.
However, several flight experts have shared their wisdom on tips and tricks to get a spot at the front of the plane without coughing up the full price.
Speaking to The Independent, Gilbert Ott, founder of travel site godsavethepoints.com, said that buying a ticket in premium economy, often just a few hundred pounds more than an economy seat, can often secure you a place at the front of the queue for upgrades.
Ott told the publication that the smallest cabin on the plane often gets the most oversold: ‘They love to oversell this cabin with upgrades, effectively selling a seat on the plane twice to someone.
‘And since it’s such a small cabin, here you’re most likely to receive a complimentary bump to business or first class.’
And if you’re travelling with a more budget operator, such as easyJet or Ryanair?
Another expert, Zach Griff, senior reporter at travel brand The Points Guy, says a last-minute check-in is often the key to a better seat.
Dreaming of some luxe at 30,000ft? Upgrades are rare but do happen, say experts (stock image)
He explained that often the most expensive seats on low-cost airlines are still sold right until the last moment – and when it’s time to fly, you might bag an eleventh hour move to a more comfortable, better appointed seat.
The travel sage said: ‘If they end up going unsold, it’s possible they might assign them to the last people checking in.’
Earlier this year, Dawn Morwood, Co-Director of Cheap Deals Away UK, shared how to ‘position yourself as a prime candidate’ for the cabin crew to move you up to business – or even first class – absolutely free of charge.
The first tip from Dawn is simply just to ask.
She told the Express: ‘When you check in, smile warmly and simply ask, “Are there any upgrade opportunities available today?”
‘This phrasing is important – it’s polite, direct, and shows you understand upgrades aren’t guaranteed.’
But the timing of this question is also just as important, says Dawn.
She explains: ‘Check in early, when more premium seats are likely available, but not during peak busy periods when staff are rushed.
Dawn Morwood, Co-Director of Cheap Deals Away UK, also advises on how to grab a seat in an elevated cabin, saying it’s possible if you play your cards right (stock image)
‘And always ask discreetly – never demand an upgrade in front of other passengers.’
Even your clothes could also make all the difference, so Dawn recommends choosing your airport outfit very wisely – and making a bit of an effort with your appearance.
She says: ‘Smart-casual clothing sends a signal that you’ll “fit in” with the premium cabin environment.
‘Think neat jeans or trousers, a collared shirt or nice top, and clean, decent shoes.’
Telling the staff you’re celebrating something like a honeymoon or big birthday could also lead to cabin crew giving you special treatment.
Dawn adds: ‘I’ve seen couples get upgraded because they mentioned their anniversary. One pair even received complimentary champagne in business class.’
Dawn also recommends being flexible with your travel plans and keeping an eye out for oversold flights – often during school holidays or weekends – as ‘these flights offer better upgrade opportunities’.
But there are some big, ‘simple mistakes’ Dawn says many people make that ‘instantly ruin their chances of an upgrade’.
Turning left on planes to enjoy business-class cabins – for free, or via purchasing a premium economy ticket – is much more likely if you play your cards right
She says: ‘Asking loudly in front of other passengers, arriving at the gate just before boarding, or being rude to staff are all guaranteed ways to stay in economy.
‘Remember that upgrades are at the discretion of airline staff – they’re more likely to reward polite, appreciative customers who’ve shown loyalty to their airline.
‘Even if you’re nervous or excited, stay calm and friendly.
‘A little genuine courtesy goes a long way when upgrade decisions are being made.’
