Devo wrote:
Scuba1 wrote:
Believe it or not, Dan, they are often available at either the ticket counter or the gate - the overwhelming majority of the time, free upgrades are offered to the airlines "elite" flyers - but not always!
Some airlines have a set upgrade menu for flights that day whereby "today it will cost you (only) $200, or $150, or some such "reasonable" amount to upgrade"
The better way to go is ASK - you don't ask, you don't get - especially if you are a FF with that airline - you stand a better chance w/ just a basic FF card/status of getting upgraded.
We sometimes fly TACA out of Miami - I got to know the woman who checked us in - was always the same person - I have what could be described as an outgoing personality
and I always spoke w/ her (not what you are thinking; she was older than me - I'm 56 - and it was just basic small talk) - I also always got upgraded (my 3 other friends never did) and I'm not a FF w/ them - so it happens, sometimes even when you don't ask!
I did not realize that you could pay to upgrade to business class at the gate. Do this apply even if you are not a member of their FF club? I read an article that your chances of being upgraded often reflect your attire. The guy dressed in a suit will always get an upgrade over the guy dressed like a bum.
Lots of great info on this thread.Devo
I think so too! To me, this is what this site is about - sharing info and experiences on a wide variety of subjects
Check the counter; also ask at the gate - there are more "unwritten rules" in the airline industry that the general public has no clue about.
And I'd agree w/ you re the better dressed guy (or gal) probably having a slight advantage, but its attitude thats the most important thing (although not suggesting you dress like you just left the Salvation Army Shelter, or how many do in the HDR
) - smile, make a (tasteful) comment like - "Wow - long day, huh - I'm dead too..."
And see where it goes from there - can't hurt. And asking about upgrades - assuming he/she does not pick up on your comments and offer you one for free -- makes you look more on the ball and less clueless than 90% of the flying public.
PS - to Srlim - re your air vs land hours - WOW....Jesus!
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