How to Upgrade Plane Tickets

When you're desperate to find a seat on a particular flight, you'll take just about anything available. Unfortunately, once the euphoria of your purchase has waned, you're left with the knowledge that you're going to be sitting in an uncomfortable seat, possibly squashed between a crying baby and a chatty stranger. Thankfully, all is not lost. If you have the money, the time and a bit of luck on your side, you may be able to upgrade your plane tickets.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

By Phone

Step 1

Call the airline that you are traveling on (see Resources).

Step 2

Speak to an agent about upgrading your current seat. The ticket agent will ask you for your name, flight number and date/time of your departure.

Step 3

Pay your charges. If an upgrade is available, the agent will ask for your credit card information or frequent flyer number, if applicable. You can expect to spend several hundred dollars when upgrading your airline tickets.

In Person

Step 1

Arrive early and speak to the ticket agent about upgrading your tickets when you are checking in. Arriving early will give you better chances of beating others who are looking to upgrade their plane tickets.

Step 2

Speak to the agent politely. As the old adage goes, "you catch more flies with honey than vinegar." This applies to ticket agents as well.

Step 3

Ask for what you want specifically. Don't waste the agent's time by beating around the bush. A simple and polite, "May I upgrade my seat today?" will do the trick.

Step 4

Tell the agent that you are a member of the frequent flyers program for their airline (if applicable). Some airlines offer special perks for their frequent flyers.

Step 5

Pay for the upgrade if one is available. You can always pay with your credit card. If you have enough miles in your frequent flyer account, ask about redeeming those for the upgraded tickets.

Tips & Warnings

Dress nicely. People respond to others when they present themselves in a pleasing manner. If you are a professional (doctor, etc.), mention it offhandedly. You may get special treatment if the ticket agent thinks that you are flying for an important reason.

Dress nicely. People respond to others when they present themselves in a pleasing manner.

If you are a professional (doctor, etc.), mention it offhandedly. You may get special treatment if the ticket agent thinks that you are flying for an important reason.

Upgrading your plane tickets can be very expensive. Be prepared to pay several hundreds of dollars, if not more.

Resources

List of Airline Telephone Numbers

Article Written By Jennifer Habersham

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