Any tips to get upgraded

[cheekything]

We are to travelling to New York in April, any tips which might help us get upgraded?

[dzug]

The only certain way is to pay for an upgrade.

Otherwise you chances are slim but not zero. Dress smartly, be polite. Check in just before checkin closes* - but don't leave it too late or you won't get on at all, since the flight needs to be over-booked in economy to begin with.

Join the airline's frequent flyer club and do lots of flights.

*This does have its disadvantages if you are NOT upgraded, as is very likely - you'll get the last and worst seats in economy and may not be together.

[dzug]

Two more tips, maybe not helpful ones to you but of general interest:

travel alone - one person is more easily upgradable than two or more

choose another destination - New York is a popular business destination and is more likely to be booked solid in business than in economy.

[vehelpfulguy]

Change your name to Joan Collins ?

I have done over 100 flights with my company, all over the world, and NEVER been upgraded.

You may have a chance if you hold a frequent flyer card with the airline, but if not the chances are slim to zero.

A friend of mine once got to New York airport late for a flight to London and the plane was full.

He was asked if he would be willing to wait till tomorrow.

He was about to blow his top when they said they would fly him back on Concorde. He agreed.

This does not happen often.

[dzug]

A more lengthy dissertation here:

http://www.insidetraveller.co.uk/guide1.htm

[squawk]

have a friend with access to the pilot!
im an air traffic control officer working at london radar centre. as you know if you are flying out of london you will be in contact with atc via vhf radio. when not too busy a little mention of a friend on board often results in a mention over the cabin address system sometimes accompanied by a move upstairs or attentive service from the stewards. more drinks anyone??

[jno]

I've occasionally dressed nicely and asked sweetly and not got one. A couple of times I've done nothing at all, not even asked, and been given one. I have no idea why. Do be polite to all the staff you meet, as they can kill any chances with a snap of their fingers.

[dzug]

You will not get an upgrade because you ask.

You will get an upgrade if the airline NEEDS to upgrade someone (eg through overbooking) AND you look suitable (ie would fit in with the business travellers) AND there is no-one booked with a higher priority (eg frequent flyer club member) who has still to check in. Only then if you ask....

[JonnoGenie]

Yes I agree you will not get an upgrade by asking.

I've been upgraded from Eco to Club on BA maybe 3 times in 100 flights, and each time it has been a surprise and totally out of the blue.