How to Get an Upgrade to First Class on a Flight?

How to Get an Upgrade to First Class on a Flight?
Saheel Singh
By Saheel Singh
Senior Content Writer
19 Jan 2026
Flight

First Class Upgrade

Commercial Pilot

Commercial Aviation

Pilot

It's the dream of any passenger travelling in economy class to be upgraded to a higher class.  Well, this is very much possible. Each flight is different; there are a few reasons why flight attendants pull strings for some lucky passengers. For helping to figure out how to ask for an upgrade on a flight. Let us look at what can be done.

1. When It is Best to Ask for an Upgrade

When It is Best to Ask for an Upgrade - image 1

On Quieter Travel Days

For upgradation to a higher class, there should be open seats in that section. If one has booked it at the last minute, it can often be seen exactly on the seat selection page at booking time how many seats are taken.

Before Getting on the Plane

The best time to ask for an upgrade is while waiting at the gate. Consult the gate agent and let them know that you are interested in moving up. Gate agents will have a list of frequent fliers eligible for upgrades, but if no one is on the list, you can be upgraded.

After you've Earned Elite Status

If you have elite status with the airline, you will more often than not get an upgrade. Frequent fliers will always get priority when there are empty seats in first class or business class. Along with free upgrades, he/she might also earn lounge access, waived luggage fees, and early boarding if you log miles with one company.

2. Tips for Making an Upgrade

Tips for Making an Upgrade - image 1

Be Nice to the Staff

 Maintain eye contact when your flight attendants come around and thank them for their service. If you are looking to go above and beyond, bring a small token of appreciation for flight attendants; it could be reciprocated with free drinks, snacks or an upgrade. If one is upgraded on the flight, it's likely to be at the very beginning.

Dress to Impress

If you are looking to get an upgrade, you should wear impressive clothes. Though you won't always be selected for an upgrade based on what you wear, according to some flight attendants, you can also be removed from the upgrade list if you look too comfy with your attire.

Clue Gate Agents in on Special Circumstances

The people travelling with a baby might have a better chance of getting an upgrade. Consult with the gate agents before boarding and if you can get a Comfort or bulkhead seat, flight attendants may also offer you a bassinet on a long flight. Manage your expectations; mostly, agents can't offer rewards for birthdays or anniversaries.

3. Coming to a Close

If you are looking to become a pilot and propel aircraft through the skies, it is mandatory for you to have a commercial pilot license up your sleeve. To get one, you can always enroll with us at FlapOne Aviation. We will train you in both the theoretical and practical aspects of flying and support you in securing a license.

Popular Tags:

Flight

First Class Upgrade

Commercial Pilot

Commercial Aviation

Pilot
Saheel Singh
Saheel Singh
Senior Content Writer

A dynamic and seasoned content writer with 6 years of experience curating content for different platforms. With the knowledge of all the cogs of content writing and SEO, he has served in various industries. He believes that content is the kingpin, and if penned well, it has a lasting impact on the minds of the readers. Apart from content creation, he is also an ardent poetry lover and performer. He has two publications of his poetry collection, namely Alfaaz and Chestha

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