While cost-effective, travelling in economy is no way to for a man to live. The thrill of being invited to turn left instead of right when you board a flight can be yours, but you’ll need to follow a few simple rules.
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1. Dress well
If you look like you belong, most airlines will be more likely to upgrade you. It also helps if you can whip out your frequent flyer card to prove your loyalty to the company.
2. “Other significant information”
If you are booking via a travel agent, ask them if they can a comment under to your booked entitled “other significant information”. This crafty bit of inception may persuade the airline staff that you are a VIP.
3. This guy
Most check-in staff won’t be able to upgrade you, but ask if they can add a code to your ticket that signifies to the staff at the gate that you are eligible to be bumped up to the next level should something be available.
4. You guys are the best
If you were late because a connecting flight with another airline was delayed, then you should mention this to the check-in staff. They will want to win your loyalty over so they might add that all important ‘upgrade’ code.
5. I’m Spartacus
If your flight is overbooked, then make sure that you are the first to volunteer to be “bumped up”.
6. Wing it
If you’re that desperate, then confidently stride your way into First or Business Class and slip into any free seat there is, smile and say nothing. The only time you’re likely to get caught out is when the food comes around and they realise that you’re not on the roster. If it’s a night flight, you can probably get away with a few cheeky hours sleep before they escort you back down to the rest of the rabble.
