Research by Flight Hacks reveals that seat upgrades are possible if passengers understand the workings of the seat allocation system and engage respectfully with airline staff.
Frequent flyer loyalty programmes are beneficial, with 80pc of airline staff indicating that members are more likely to receive free upgrades and other rewards.
Travelling alone during off-peak times can increase the chances of getting an upgrade, with 72pc of cabin crew more likely to offer this to solo travellers.
Dressing smartly enhances a traveller’s chances, as 59pc of cabin crew favour well-dressed passengers for upgrades, viewing them as more desirable customers.
Being polite improves the likelihood of receiving a free upgrade, with a survey indicating that 82pc of airline staff prefer to upgrade courteous passengers.
Use whatever personal advantage you’ve got. Is it your birthday on the day you fly? Are you on your way to your honeymoon? Is it a special anniversary. In fact, research suggests that 58pc of cabin crew staff would be more likely to upgrade newlyweds.
Immanuel Debeer shared: “There are plenty of simple tricks to increase the chances of getting an Free upgrades on flights are rare, but not a myth. Not every plane is fully booked, and sometimes, a free seat in first or business class is just waiting to be claimed upgrade, but the most important thing to remember is that airline staff are human. Presenting yourself as someone they would want to offer a free upgrade to is what underpins all of these tips.”
