FOR most of us, the dream of cosying up in a plush business class seat while jetting off on our holidays seems out of reach – unless you’re willing to fork out thousands for the luxury.
But what if there was a way to score an easy upgrade on a plane without spending a fortune?
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With rising ticket prices and basic seats already costing a fortune, most travellers will grudge paying any more for business or premium seats.
But scoring a FREE upgrade, especially when it comes to tighter cabins and busier airports, is one of the most sought-after perks.
And luckily, one expert is on hand to help you achieve just that.
As the summer holidays approach and schools finish for six weeks, a senior flight attendant has shared her complete guide to nabbing a free upgrade.
Lisa Grant has worked with several major airlines over the past 12 years and has revealed all the tricks to bumping up your seat.
The 34-year-old says that while free upgrades are unheard of, they do still happen – but staff are more selective than ever.
Upgrades don’t happen because you asked—they happen because you were prepared, visible, and easy to help
Lisa Grant
Speaking with Ski Vertigo, she explained that passengers who understand how airlines prioritise seat upgrades have a better chance of experiencing that coveted move up the cabin.
And it’s all about a few ‘subtle triggers’ that airport staff and cabin crew notice from the moment you arrive at the airport.
Lisa said the first thing that they pick up on is how you are dressed and how you treat staff at the check-in desk or departure gate.
She said: “Arrive early and be genuinely polite to staff, especially gate agents.
“If we need to reseat someone due to overbooking, weight balancing, or a faulty seat, we’ll always consider passengers who are calm and respectful.”
While there is no official dress code for upgrades, Lisa explains that looking presentable helps.
She added: “A smart outfit doesn’t mean a suit — but clean, well-fitting clothes signal you’re serious and might blend better in a premium cabin.
“We’re not saying you need designer labels—but appearing composed and professional increases your chances.”
Another thing that can help is if you join the airline’s loyalty programme — even if it is a free one.
In 2025, it’s less about luck and more about understanding how airlines make those decisions. If you match what they’re looking for you could find yourself at the front of the plane
Travel expert Ski Vertigo
While it’s wrongly assumed that upgrades only go to elite flyers, it does help if you have even a basic frequent flyer account.
Lisa explains: “When we look for eligible passengers, we see loyalty status.
“If two people are equally suitable, the one who’s part of the airline’s programme — even at entry level — will usually get priority.”
Nearly all major airlines now offer free sign-ups, and even one flight on record puts your name into the system.
Ski Vertigo advises joining programmes before booking, as many airlines won’t recognise late registrations at the airport.
This includes British Airways Executive Club, Lufthansa Miles and More, Emirates Skywards and Virgin Flying Club.
How you travel can also affect your chances of getting a free upgrade, for example, you might have better luck if you are travelling solo and not during peak flight times.
Lisa says: “Solo travellers are much easier to relocate into a single empty seat in business or premium.
“We rarely move couples or families unless there’s a serious issue.
Other strategies that might help
THE experts have also shared some other strategies that might help you get a free upgrade.
These are:
Use points or vouchers – Many airlines offer upgrade bids or discounted upgrades using loyalty points or credit cards — often at lower rates than buying premium outright.
Ask at check-in – If premium cabins haven’t sold out, discounted upgrades may be available — especially for flexible or frequent flyers.
Avoid basic economy fares – These are usually excluded from upgrade eligibility, even with points.
Be cooperative on board – If asked to change seats to accommodate others, doing so helpfully may make staff more willing to assist you later.
Travelling on your birthday or a special occasion? It won’t guarantee an upgrade, but a friendly crew may offer a complimentary drink or gesture.
“Upgrades don’t happen because you asked—they happen because you were prepared, visible, and easy to help,” says Lisa Grant.
Travel expert Ski Vertigo adds: “In 2025, it’s less about luck and more about understanding how airlines make those decisions. If you match what they’re looking for—even once—you could find yourself sipping a welcome drink at the front of the plane.”
“During quieter periods, we’re more flexible. But during half term or major holidays, every seat is usually paid for.”
Lisa also stresses that asking for an upgrade without a reason is unlikely to work.
She added: “If you’ve got a broken seat, you’re unwell, or there’s a comfort issue — we’ll always try to help.
“But pushing, hinting, or name-dropping usually works against you.”
Cabin crew communicate regularly, and any rudeness at check-in or boarding is noted and passed on.
“If a passenger was demanding earlier, we’re far less likely to make any special arrangements for them later,” Lisa confirms.
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