Upgrade to Business class?
Seriously, how do people just get upgraded to business class? Is there a catch to it? Are they paying extra cash behind the scenes? How does one qualify for an upgrade? I have seen some people getting upgraded randomly. Any tips?
Overbooking?
Be a frequent flier, get status, and have miles to burn on upgrades.
Do you imply sticking to 1 airline?
I stick to one "group". I personally prefer Delta of the US airlines and their group has a decent coverage: KLM and Airfrance. Also this group is more advantageous on the east coast due to being European airlines. If you got to China/India you will probably connect in Europe
Having status on airlines is pretty much the only way you can get upgraded these days — stick to 1 airline
Check the airlines website a day or 2 before the flight. You would certainly get a decent deal.
TC?
Most airlines allow you to transfer points from major credit cards (chase and amex especially) and then pay for upgrade with those points. Or just book biz with points. High TC helps as you typically spend more and make more points if you use the cards correctly.
Stick with 1 airline and get an airline mileage CC and fly more frequently.
Status and points bro, get with the program
Frequent flyer on Delta (live in Atlanta), I fly few times a month and I am still only Silver medallion. If you want to get status quick, go with American or United. I get upgraded most of the time. It also depends on how full the flight is, and how many people with higher status are flying with you. They tend to upgrade to open up the cheap seats when they are running low.
Agreed. Thinking I’ll book a flight to PEK just to push me over the edge
Didn’t even know this existed, thanks!
You have to be likeable. I get upgraded all the time! Being good looking doesn't hurt either. Just kidding, I am ugly and have to pay for the upgrade everytime :(!