I'm a little confused about your question. Are you asking how to pay for coach class and instead get first class? That's not likely to happen -- if you want to fly in the first class section, basically, you're going to have to PAY for that. I suppose you could always ask at the ticket counter how much it would cost to cancel your coach ticket and then re-issue a first class ticket, but that would almost certainly cost more money than buying a first class ticket in the first place. Other than that, I don't see any way you're going to get a first class ticket unless you PAY for it. It's kind of like at a restaurant--if you pay for a hamburger, that's what they're going to serve you, even if they have steaks available.

Many airline frequent-flyer programs allow you a free upgrade, but that's clearly spelled out in these programs. Check around each airline on how many miles it will cost you to get this upgrade.

About the only way you're going to get first class after paying for coach is if the plane overbooks coach and the only empty seats are in first class. That's happned to me once; I was just lucky. To be first in line for such upgrade "bumps", it would probably help to be part of an airline's frequent flyer programs.

In short, I don't think there is a way to do what I think you're trying to do.

It probably depends on the airline, but it is possible to get bumped up to first class. For example, my husband flies Icelandair frequently. On his last trip, he asked, very politely, at check in, if there were any available seats in first class (actually, it's business class on that airline). The agent said she would check after everyone has boarded and that he should wait to board the plane. He did so, and it turned out that there were seats available. Thus, he got bumped up at no extra charge. As for dress, he was just in jeans. It really depends more on your attitude and demeanor. Listen, it never hurts to ask. The worst they can do is say no.

I was bumped up to first class on my trip home from London. We arrived fairly early for our flight and we were told the plane had had engine problems, so they had to get a different plane, which was smaller. And also our flight was a direct flight. We were flying straight from london to halifax, and they offered us to either go to Toronto or montreal, then home. and if we did this, we could get first class. So, of course we did. Dress has NOTHING to do with it. It is basically luck. But they only needed so many people to switch flights, so i'm happy we went a bit earlier And it didn't cost any more, and we still got "first class" treatment

My husband and I have both been upgraded to first class. The reason both times? We had killer flu. I think the gate agents took pity on our coach seatmates and isolated us in empty first class seats. Maybe its not how you dress, but rather how sick you look. (chuckle)

I recently got bumped up to first class, but it did cost in convenience. An Air West flight from Baltimore to Seattle via Phoenix was delayed for 3 hrs (then eventually cancelled). As I had to be in Seattle, the good folks at Continental (who it appears regularly pull Air West's fat out of the fire) rescheduled me on an American flight to Seattle via Dallas (coach, but I did get American FF miles). I also got $6 lunch money for BWI airport. And a $100 coupon for future Air West flight.
And, of course, the return Air West flight from Seattle was bumped up to first class.

My husband will meet me in Puerto Rico after a business conference in January He's flying first on my US Airways FF miles. My (company paid) coach ticket home is not officially upgradeable. But maybe if we check in early, and I'm particularly pleasant to the counter staff, I can talk my way to an upgrade so we can sit together on the return flight.

Hmm.
I think the above postings show that there is no one sure-fire way of securing an upgrade.
It's happened to me three times, twice when I was flying solo:
1 Manchester U K to Taipei via Amsterdam on K L M. I arrived fairly early at M/cr, and when I got on the 747 at Schipol, I was in business class. I was casual but smart, aged 20, perhaps looking a bit lost and vulnerable!
2 Manchester to New York on British Airways. I was sitting at the bulkhead, behind business class. A couple asked a steward if they could swap with me and the woman sitting next to me, as they had a baby and needed the space. The woman sitting next to me was very savvy, and said she was prepared to swap if we could have an upgrade, as she'd specifically asked for leg room {as I had - I'm over 6'4''} and thought it right that our requests still be honoured, pointing out that the desk staff should have taken more care assigning the couple's seats. It worked!
3 Charlotte, S C to London Heathrow on B A. We arrived 5 hours before flight time, which was what we'd planned to do anyway, taking the car back to the rental firm to avoid extra day charges and then taking the bus back into town for a few hours. We were first in the queue, in casual yet smart clothes, ie. no jeans and no trainers, and asked for legroom with a smile. The clerk went behind the screen, came back, disappeared again, and then came back with the news that we were to be upgraded. It was fab! Great service, great seats, great champagne and on the cheapest ever trans-Atlantic ticket - £240 inc. tax for a non-stop 777 flight on a route with no competition as such.
To conclude: be polite, dress smartly. As for asking - I never have and it's happened 3 times.

If you tavel over 50,000 miles on one air line a year paying full coach fare you will find there are many way to get upgrades to business or first class. Otherwise, without upgrade coupons, it is a matter of luck and chance. If you fly enough and if you are a nice person, it will happen. You will be surpised what people can do at the airport and gate. Don't expect anybody to give you a do-it-yourself-kit, particularly on the web, as the angles are secrets that will kill the goose that lays the golden egg if given out.

I have traveled with my boss (who flies close to 100,000 miles annually). His American Air FF status (I believe they call it "Gold" or "President's Club") entitles him to a separate private check-in counter at certain airports, as well as a private waiting area/lounge. Most major airlines offer some such arrangement. He shows his card to the check-in agent and asks politely if there are any empty seats in first class. They always upgrade him at no charge ONLY IF there are some empty seats. I do not have the impression that this is done routinely for those of us who fly infrequently but this is an option for the very frequent flyer.

This rarely occurs, in my experience. But earlier this year it happened to my husband and me. Sorry, I cannot recall the airline or the route. However, in this case, coach was oversold. As we lined up to board, a gate attendant pulled my hubby out of line at the last minute, and of course, I went along. He was dressed very smartly, as he was going directly to the office from the airport. On the other hand, I was going home, and wore jeans and a sweater! The attendant looked at me in mild surprise, then started tapping data into her terminal. Being rather blunt, I asked what was going on. She said "I am upgrading you to first class because we need your coach seats." When I said "why us?" she nodded at my husband and said "When we do this, we like to chose people who are well dressed." Needless to say, I was shocked. We were not FFs for that airline, either. I don't think the airlines bother to ask or check anymore. In fact, they do so little these days for their FFs, it is almost laughable.

I once heard a conversation on a radio station in Chicago on this topic. Someone suggested bribes, along the lines of flowers for the desk agent. A woman called in who claimed to be a desk agent, and she said she would definitely bump up someone with flowers!

Adding a PS to my earlier post -- I did get moved up to first class for the San Juan to Charlotte leg of the trip home!
The people at the gate first asked for a coupon (which I didn't have because the frequent flyer folks told me it wouldn't be honored for what they considered an international flight). But ten minutes later, an attendant came and found us and bumped me into 1st. I was simply nice and polite ("Gee, wasn't it nice of me to get my husband a 1st class ticket with MY miles?". If you don't ask, you'll never know. The worst thing that can happen is they'll say no.

We were bumped up to business class when we flew to Germany just for asking for window seats! And my husband and I were dressed in shorts - we looked like we were ready to go backpacking! I didn't know that the row 11 that we were assigned was in business class until we boarded - I said to my husb., "are you sure we're..." and before I could finish he said, "shh! Just act like you're supposed to be here!" On our way home, we thought we would try it again. This time at the airport in Germany we asked for any upgrades that were available. We were again seated in business class. I don't think those sections on the big overseas planes are ever booked - too expensive. Try it!

It has only ever happened to me three times. The first time I got a friend of mine in the industry to put a request in. (Which is of no help or consequence to anyone on this forum, I know). But, the second time, I got my husband to go and ask at the Business Class desk, (as it was a young woman manning (sorry for the pun) the desk at the time). Finally, there was a change of aircraft at the last minute on our flight, and the configuration of the aircraft meant that my husband and I were not going to sit anywhere near each other, and the other passengers would not move or cooperate in any way. Basically, certainly with British Airways, they will NOT upgrade from economy to Club if you are wearing jeans, or not looking casually smart. I don't know about other airlines. I find that it certainly pays to ask at every possible opportunity. (ie at check-in, at the gate, and on boarding the aircraft.)

I travel to Europe with my 15 year old daughter and we've always been upgraded to business class on United. We always are dressed in nice jeans etc. We always smile a lot. I think they can't resist her smile. She always does a little "yea!" when they upgrade us. They love her.

Upgraded without trading in FF miles or certificates? By United? On international routes?

We've been bumped up to business class by pure chance, but my question is if you try to get some kind of official upgrade--using ff miles or certificates or even asking at the gate--don't you have to have a full coach fare ticket as opposed to excursion fare or whatever they're calling discounted tickets these days?

Hi All

In my experince there are a few occasions when economy flyers are upgraded. Recently our prebooked requests for extra legroom seats were messed up by British Airways. I complained though very politely and expressed my disappointment and left it at that. When we went to board we were pulled aside and upgraded to Club.

If the airline messes you around you may be able to wangle an upgrade, but alwyas be polite.

Other time also on BA several years ago was when they had over booked economy.
Dont know why they chose as as the three of us had just soent 6 weeks wondernig around India and boy did we look it...

I doubt when they have those last minute decisions about needing to upgrade for such over booking reasons that they care or have time to give the upgrade to those who paid full or whatever. They just choose on sight, perhaps clothes, perhaps smiles, who knows.

These stories suggest it's easy, but believe me, it's rare to get bumped up, particularly on American Airlines, unless you are already "privileged" with gold or platinum FF status. Sure it never hurts to ask, but more and more are asking, and many gate agents get downright crusty, no matter how nice you are. Forget it if you are a woman traveling alone, without premier status.

bumped up to First or business class??? Pure luck most of the time. I work for an airline. On flights with irregular operations bumping up is normal. Top tier FF are usually given first priority specially if they are nice. Ordinary citizens would depend on the gate controller if they are in a good mood, are you neatly dressed? The screamers usually get the seat next to the toilet or middle seats. Be nice to the check in agent too. They are friends with the gate agents.

It is possible to get upgraded if you talk nicely to the airline staff, but if they're overbooked, and they know some passangers will have to be upgraded, they'll look for smartly dressed passengers, usually travelling on their own.
I was upgraded on a flight to london from Bangkok last year. Main reason was overbooking, and most Western Passengers were asked to stay back, as they may have to get a flight with a different airline. As a 'reward', we were all upgraded which was nice! On the same trip, I took a domestic flight with British Airways from London to Aberdeen, and offered to move seats to let a family sit together. The hostess was very gratefull, and gave me 4 bottles of wine before we landed.

I traveled alone to Paris last month on Delta and after reading on this forum of other people's luck, thought I would give it a shot. They were very nice about and said that all upgrades on international flights have to be done 24 hours in advance because of the meals. Don't know if that is the truth but next time I will try that. Never hurts to ask!

I work for one of the major airlines and we call women who smile their way into first class---bimbos.

Hey Laurn-If you're really nice to an airline employee they can show you the cockpit!!!

Lauren-You make a compelling argument, but you still are a flying bimbo looking for a free ride. Next time you are working the gate, I might upgrade you if you show me your assets or better yet get you a membership in the mile high club!!!

I can't believe that you people feel like you "deserve" to get bumped up to first class, simply by asking. I pay full fare first class eveytime I fly to avoid what is honestly the general population. People in first class are generally more well mannered, and one is less likely to find those screaming babies or kids who kick the back of one's seat. When people are turned down for free upgrades, I smile. If I'm paying $2000+ for an airline ticket, why should someone who paid a discount coach fair get bumped? I agree that if someone suffers from a problem with the airline, first class can be just compensation--that's fine. It's those who just check-in and ask for upgrades that irk me.

Ryan

As a gate supervisor for a major airline with over 20 years of experience, I have seen my share of people try to "sweet talk," charm, cajole, etc. their way into first class. The majority are women and some have even went as far as to promise "favors" in exchange for an upgrade.

While asking is not harming anyone as you say Lauren, it puts the gate agent in an uncomfortable position. We cannot upgrade the tons of people who nicely ask us. Upgrading someone based on dress, looks, niceness is discrimination and bias and opens up a can of worms.

So please, unless you are a frequent flyer with premier or club status, please do not try to talk your way into first class. It makes our jobs a whole lot harder!

Ryan--

I don't feel I deserve anything besides what I pay for--coach. However, if it is at all possible, I would like to be comfortable on my plane trip. To me, it doesn't matter one way or another because, however you look at it, we all get there at the same time.

I don't feel that first class should be so expensive. I am a well-mannered young lady with no screaming kids, yet, I do not see how in the world I could ever pay the outrageous fares for the oh-so-privilaged. Would you rather sit next to me, a plesant, non-drinking woman who paid for coach, or a drunk, rowdy, loud individual who paid for first class just for the free drinks? Life is full of injustice and unfairness. This just happens to be one of them.

FlyBoy--

*laughing* Keep dreaming, hun

GateAgent--

Part of customer service is being in a difficult position. However, I think majority of the asking stems from gate agents who pick and choose upon will who they think should be bumped up. (See the hosted forum by Jon--an airline attendant) This happens on a regular basis, and therefore, causes others to hope, pray, and ask. Sorry if this bothers you, but like I said before, dealing with customers is part of the job.


To everyone--

I don't know why I am getting personally attacked in this forum. There are plenty of posted discussions like this (ie. tips from those in the airlines and those who are not) all throughout Fodor's. Yet, I have to see any one person tarred and feathered like myself. Guess I am wondering what in the world I did to provoke such hostility. Geez Louise--I haven't flown on a plane yet! LOL I suppose I'll do like I have done--take it all in jest and keep responding! Have a great weekend!

Here's what I do....Sometimes I get upgraded and sometimes I don't....

We always get to the airport early enough to be among the first in line...I ask if there are any seats available in First Class...If they say yes, I ask how much they would charge for an upgrade....Sometimes they check and quote a full fare (which is always much more than we'd go for) so I say thanks but that's more than we'd like to pay and continue our trip in coach....Sometimes they play around with their computers and then excuse themselves for a minute, then come back and upgrade us for no charge...And sometimes we've been quoted a price like $75 each and we hand them a credit card and we're off....I'd say we end up in first class about 50% of the time and about half of those times we paid some reasonable amount...There isn't any rhyme or reason or airline that I can tell, just luck!....

Lauren:
I am totally on your side. Although
I have paid full fare for a first class ticket and paid for upgrades at the gate, I ahve also received my share of free upgrades. I did not dress skanky, showed leg, nor have I flirted. I politely asked and was given the upgrade. I dressed neatly and unlike the previous posters, have class. Those who berate you and get upset with your request are jealous. Plain and simple. If they were given a free upgrade they would take it. If someone offered them something for nothing, they'd take it. As for DISGUSTED, get off your high horse and 'premier' club ego and come back to reality. There are those who fly full fare and those who fly smart. And for the Gate Attendant who called flirters 'bimbos': don't go that route because your sister or mother is probably doing the same thing. Oh I forgot, they fly discount too.

Sorry ME, I disagree with you and Lauren. Your responses really made me laugh out loud at your reasoning! And Lauren, first class is expensive because the airlines want to keep it exclusive. If you can't afford it, stay in coach!

And Lauren-You are personally getting attacked here because of your hair brained notion that you somehow deserve to be upgraded because you are nice! You need to grow up and face reality that being nice to everybody does not get you free perks. And ME you are so completely full of it!!!

Jim---

Perhaps you have trouble reading. I have said numerous times that I don't feel I deserve anything but the seat that I paid for. Where you come up thinking that I said I "deserve an upgrade for being nice" lacks support in anything I have said.

All I said is that I would ask if it is possible to upgrade. If it is, I will take it graciously. How that is thinking I deserve something that I didn't pay for is beyond me.

As for first class being expensive for the sake of being exclusive, there is point where expensive gets ludicrous!

You may think I need to grow up and realize that you don't get free perks for being nice, but I do not. Being nice in today's world is a welcomed change, and I often receive "free perks" because of it. How is that wrong? (However, if I don't get anything, who cares?! What am I out of nothing. It doesn't cost a dime to be plesant!) I am nice--that's my normal, everyday personality. If someone gives me something, or if I benefit from being myself, how can you fault me? Fault the world for being so selfish, hateful, and uncaring. Fault the one who gives the free perks for being gullible or whatever you may call it. However, do not fault me for growing up with manners and kindness. What would you rather do, be mean and hateful? Sorry. Not going to happen. It is just the same as a rude passenger getting a lack of service because of his attitude. Whether it's right or not, what services you receive are based on your attitude towards others.

Me--

Thanks a million for the post.

It's has been entertaining to watch the argument. Please keep up both the angry messages and the helpful ones! Here is my strategy for upgrades, and as others have said, sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. You must request the upgrade. Start when you make the reservations. Continue at check in and at the gate. Ask multiple agents. Stick around the gate agent until almost everybody has boarded. Ask multiple times. As I was building my miles, before I achieved highest level FF status, I used to do/try anything to get upgraded. These worked: I used to buy peanut M&Ms for a check-in agent in Salt Lake City, hand out free lapel pins (agents loved to wear these). I loved it when the plane was late, especially in Las Vegas on a connecting flight, as the Customer Service agents would upgrade my next flight due to my soft complaint. Once I achieved highest FF status, I never flew coach but always paid coach ( or whatever the travel dept. negotiated discounted rates). Other airlines matched their highest FF plans for a 3-6 mth period. Now it has been a 2+ years since my peak flying days. I'm just a regular traveler, without current high level status. My last fight I used AIRTRAN, which has a policy to upgrade for just $25. I hung around the gate agent, waited until almost everybody boarded, asked, "Can I be moved up front, please?" - and they did for nothing. This worked for both segments. Both times, I was initially given a negative response, once at the departure area and the other time at initial check in. [I didn't realize but AIRTRAN has very cheap walk-up-rates, which is why I took them]

Lauren-Your nicety-nice attitude and whining is getting real tiresome! This site is for people who travel with real advice. Take your sweetness and go post somewhere else as it is wearing thin around here!

Bottom line: Lauren was asking about her chances to get bumped to first class using charm and a pleasant attitude. She was then attacked by jealous, snotty, pretentious, arrogant, "I'm-rich-me-first-screw-the-rest" people.

I find that it does not hurt to ask for an upgrade and the worst thing they can say is no. It doesn't hurt to dress nicely and have a nice attitude while you're asking either. THe forum hosted by "Jon" the flight attendant reiterated my thoughts. So there.

"It doesn't hurt to ask, does it." That is the most ridiculous argument I have heard ME. Why are you asking for something that you have not earned and are not entitled to??? IMO, you lack character, integrity, morals and values and you are only interested in yourself and what you can get for nothing! You are irresponsible and guilty of hyper individualism! Quit throwing a tantrum!

ByeBye---

That's why I am here--for the travel advice. I will be a first time traveler in December and have been visiting the forums frequently for advice, tips, and hints. That's why I was interested in this forum--a chance to possibly be bumped up sounded nice. However, it got personal. I feel silly now for actually taking the time to reply to their messages, but I felt I had to, not just for my sakes, but for everyone who does ask for these upgrades. I really hope that you don't feel I was whining, just being inquisitive and then, later, defensive.

SomeFlier---

GREAT TIPS! I find this chat forum entertaining too. I also feel like a fool for responding to those who tried to say I was a "prostitute" or a "bimbo." Oh well...a learning experience for all!

Me---

Once again--thanks!

Lauren, don't worry, most people aren't as arrogant as some of these posters. SOMEBODY NEEDS TO GET THAT SILVER SPOON FROM OUT OF THEIR A$$. Anyways.

As for FedUp, if no one opened their mouth and asked for something, then many people would miss out on things they normally would not experience. To berate someone for simply asking is very arrogant. As for "why are you asking for something you are not entitled to?" DO you honestly think, wearing that cheap polyester suit and fake rolex that YOU are entitled to a first class seat? Because your company paid for those business tickets so you can rack up those frequent flyer miles to get free upgrades? Yeah you know it's the truth. Too bad airlines don't require "class" to sit in first class. You snobby people make me sick.

I think I'll go to the car dealer this weekend and buy a new Chevy, since that is what I can afford. But hey, since I am soooo nice, well-dressed and oozing with class, I'll ask the dealer real nice if he can upgrade me to a Cadillac at the same price! Since he has had so many mean, nasty customers all day, I bet he'll be glad to sell me the Cadillac for the price of the Chevy. It doesn't hurt to ask now, does it.

And while I am at it, I will go to the jewelry store and see if I can upgrade that Timex to a Rolex at no extra charge. I am sure the jeweler will be so happy I am nice, that he will do it. It doesn't hurt to ask does it.

And then I'll go to Saks and upgrade that wool coat to a full-length mink. Because I am so nice, well-dressed and classy, I know they will do it. It doesn't hurt to ask does it????

I don't understand what the big deal is here, folks. The plane is going to take off whether first class is full or not, so why not make someone's day and upgrade them if there are open spots? I used to work at the front desk of a nice resort, and we used to enjoy upgrading people if we had empty rooms on our upgraded floors. Sometimes a guest would ask and we would do it, and sometimes we would just give them a key and let them find out on their own. They almost always would call or come back down and be so appreciative. It made their stay special and many of them came back because of the "extras." Management's theory was that a room was going to be used anyway, why not give the guest the best we can? (This is a chain hotel by the way) I guess I think this theory can be carried over into the airlines and I see now problem with it. I'm surprised by the angry responses here.

Eloise:
You are right.

Gracey:
The Rolex and the mink coat are going to cost the retailer some money whereas the empty first class seats aren't going to cost the airlines a dime. In fact, they may get more business through their good business practice and pleasant service. Are you that dumb? Your analogies don't make sense.

Laruen,
I hope you don't get discouraged on travel or using this and other forums. It does not sound like you are discouraged, but the attacks were oddly unprovoked. I personally love some of the entertaining responses, and understand they are entertainment.

Some of the attitudes about not earning an upgrade reminds me of the time a group of us ate at at Benehana (sp?) like place in Salt Lake City. As we got friendly with others there, travel became the topic. All of us road warriers had frequent flier miles, and often were upgraded. One woman from Cedar City said to another member of our group (without knowing all of us were together) that we were all rich. We flew first class. We all chuckle about this story even years later.

I am here for entertainment purposes too.

Gracey---

Like Eloise said, there's no way to make a comparison between what you said and being upgraded on a plane. It's like apples and oranges.

Elosie--

Thanks for your professional input and support for all the "horrible upgraders!" Upgrades are a great way to help customer satisfaction. Also, another thing they do is show someone what the difference is and if it's worth the money. It's like receiving a free sample of shampoo with toothpaste. I would have never bought the expensive shampoo, but I got it for free and now I love it!!

Some Flier---

I take all the insults in jest. No one is going to ruin any traveling for me. I'd enjoy my trip to Europe even if I had to ride in the cargo bay!!

Me--

What can I say...*sitting in my PC chair laughing* Are we having fun yet?

I think Lauren is trying to whore her way into first class. We don't need that kind of element.

ME-Airlines today are overbooked. There are seldom any empty seats left especially on routes which funnel into their hubs.

As for empty seats in first class-The first priority is to Premier or Elite class frequent flyer status. These flyers will often change planes and put their names on lists so they can be upgraded.

Lauren-As for those of us who fly frequently not having "earned" the right to be upgraded, I was seeing red at that statement. Contrary to popular belief, business travel is not glamourous or exciting. Sometimes I am given 1 days notice that I have to fly to some backwater hole in the wall for business. I have to live out of a suitcase, eat meals on the run, work 12-14 hours a day and go back to a strange bed and try to sleep! I often miss my kids soccer games , piano recitals and plays. Plus, I have to deal with airline delays, due to weather or mechanical, pilot strikes, flight attendant strikes, lost baggage, chatty seat mates while I am trying to do my paperwork etc. Business travelers do not get supersaver coach rates that leisure travelers pay. We are socked for the full coach fare or pay business class fares! One of the few "perks" we get as a result of working 12-14 hours a day and traveling is to get upgraded! Also, there are a lot of independent consultants and business owners who pay their own fares and do not have their company reimbursing them! A friend of mine works for a large banking conglomerate charges his travel on his corporate American Express. He pays the bill and his company will reimburse him months later. He is still responsible for paying the bill on time.

With all the cutbacks, overbooking, fuel increases, the days of the airlines giving away seats in first class are just about over! First class service, while better than coach, has deteriorated greatly in the last 5-10 years. On short hops, other than the leg room, the service is not much better than coach.

IMO, you probably will not be upgraded for being nice. And the people who are telling you they are getting upgraded for free are probably forgetting to mention they are frequent flyers or their spouses are or they paid the full coach fare.

Chuck,
nicely put and very mature. thanks for not insulting anybody. I understand your position and appreciate the professional response.

Chuck,

When I said that statement, it was in regard to "Disgusted's" statement about "earning" his "premier" place in first class because he flies a lot. I did not mean that those who fly for business should not be upgraded. I personally believe that those with FF miles should be bumped up, assuming they have a civilized attitude. Like you said, it's not easy being a business traveler. My mother is VP of International Sales. Like you she travels extensively for business, but she knows it's part of the job. Every job has it's perks, and every job has it's horrible moments.

I probably won't get upgraded on my trip, but as I've reiterated hundreds of times, it won't hurt my feelings if I don't. I would like to try, though. If I succeed, then "Woo Hoo!" If I don't, big deal. No loss to me. But like many gate agents and other attendants have said (including Fodor's hosted forum with Jon), it all depends on the fickle attendant and their mood.

Like ME said, thanks for stating your opinion with dignity and without verbal abuse. It makes the forums so much nicer when opinions can be made without acting like spoiled toddlers. I appreciate it and value your opinion. Sorry you don't see your kids as much as you'd like. I grew up in that situation, and as long as your kids know that you love them, it will be okay. They will love and respect you for being a great daddy!

Lauren and ME-I am amused that you two feel compelled to answer/argue with those who you feel are posting insensitive/nasty/opinionated remarks here. These people (or person) are baiting you and by answering them back you are fueling the flames. The best course of action is to ignore them! Do not post back or try to reason with these people as that is what they want. Most of the people on this board are nice, helpful people. However, there is a small % who hide behind annonymity who do not care one iota what you do. Best to ignore them.

Amused:
Thanks, grandma.

ME-(and Lauren) Why do you feel the need to have the last word???? Are you obsessed with this board or what? Or do you have some deep, psychological problem? This subject has been beat to death by you two and you still have to have the last word, don't you. Are you at work ME?? Don't you have work to do??? Or are you one of the stay at home moms with nothing better to do than post here all day long??? You need to get a life, get some work done and get some professional help!!! Anyone that posts as much inane nonsense as you do needs to see a shrink!!! If you think you are being cute, think again, you and your pal Lauren are both annoying and tiresome. Move on to something else, please....

ok, Q. James Bond would like his Z8 now.
Anyway, I only respond to those idiots like yourself. Maybe I need psychological help. What's your shrinks name? As far as monitoring this board, you wouldn't know if I get the last word if you didn't check up on it yourself, hypocrite. The topic is asking for upgrades and that was what I initially responded to (with my wit and humor), so unless you have an opinion, mind your own business and move on to another board. And yes, I do have the last word. There.

TO ME-You have gotten so far off the topic it's not even funny anymore. And if you think you are funny and amusing-think again you are not. You really must not have much of a life ME because you are constantly posting here! IMO, you are an obsessive-compulsive person and you do indeed need therapy.

Thanks, Ginger. Tell Gilligan I said hi.

Amused--

I don't feel compelled to do anything. I just like to respond to what others have said on the board. In fact, that's what this is here for. It's like a discussion. I've learned a lot on this one forum. I've also been entertained by a great deal of posts, mine included. If I fueling the flames, good! Let's throw some gas on on the fire as well. It's all in fun and games, as well as learning what others think about upgrading or being "bumped up."

Q--

If this subject has been beat to death, why are you reading it? If I felt something was of no value, I would surely stop reading it. I would definitely not post a message, as that would be wasting my own time. You are only adding to this "annoying and tiresome" forum. But if you must know why I "feel the need" to answer, I will tell you--but you must keep this a secret. It's very, very confidential!! I am Dr. Chyna Rock at the BAD Horse University (for those who are unfamiliam with BAD Horse, it's Beat A Dead Horse University in New Jersey). I am doing research on how far someone can take a subject before violence sets in among the masses. You are only a guinea pig to me, and I thank you for posting. It will help my research greatly. Look for my final data in next month's issue of the scientific journal, BFD (and if you don't know what BFD stands for, then you are highly uneducated, my dear, for all the brillant scientists rave about it).

The original question has been answered. Let's put an end to the bickering, slams and obnoxious posts. Thank you.

I just wandered into this forum and find the different opinions quite funny. First, I'm a travel agent and there is some value in dressing nicely. The guidelines that we are given to recieve reduced rate travel usually have a dress code. Some prefer business attire such as suits or dressed. Some ban jeans, shorts, and tennis shoes so I think dressing appropriately does have some value in this. That doesn't mean it will happen though. For those that think it is horrible to accept any more than you have paid for...What do you do in a restaurant or somewhere if they offer you more than you ordered or properly paid for. Usually businesses do this for good customer relations and IT WORKS! Cruise ships give free upgrades all the time because the better trip you have with them, the more likely you'll not only come back but give good referrals. Bottom line is that I would certainly ask but don't really plan on it and don't be disappointed if you don't get what you want. You rarely will bu that makes the times you do better.
By-the-way, Lauren, let us know how you do. I always think it is great when niceness is rewarded. Pushiness I can't stand!

Thank you, AN AGENT, for putting things into perspective for those travellers who insist that only the scum ask for upgrades.

Where have you been ME, most travel agents are disdained on this forum. Do a search on the US forum and you will find out why!!

And ME- You have continued to keep the flaming and bickering going on this thread!! I think it's about time it stopped!!! Maybe if you were not such a loose cannon about things posted here by anonymous people who are baiting you, this thread would not have gotten so totally out of line!

Sorry, I didn't know that agents were so "disdained" so I checked on the US forum and read many of the posts against TAs but really didn't see any reasons other than some people are afraid that we might try to earn a living or give our opinion on a travel subject. What a bizarre idea for someone who specializes in a field to actually have an opinion in that field! I have only been an agent for a couple of years and chose this as a second career because I've always enjoyed planning vacations and doing research in that area. I know the cynical ones out there do not buy this but I really don't feel a need to try to change their minds. As to the idea that we are here to advertise......I don't know about others but I am not. I do mostly cruises and spend a bit of time on the forums getting passengers opinions on the good or bad things they experience on different trips so I can pass that on to my clients. Just the opposite of trying to sell what is best for me. I sometimes answer questions about different shore excursions etc. from my experience as a passenger not as a travel agent. I benefit in no way. FYI: I have never been on a free or reduced rate vacation yet but of course I do hope that happens in the future.

My spouse and I have gotten "bumped up" to first class many times on United for no fee. We have done it on domestic flights, international flights, and once we were using frequent flyer miles and did not even pay for our coach seat!

We ask the airline rep at check-in (not at the gate, but at the baggage check in). We have never gotten upgraded by a rep at the gate.

I think the keys are: 1. Be a member of the airlines frequent flyer program. 2. Be friendly, and don't be afraid to ask! If the rep likes you, you will get the upgrade if one is available. We have had reps tell us there is no way they could upgrade us, and then after we chatted them up and made them laugh a bit, they gave it to us anyway.

I was bumped from coach to business class on a flight from Tel Aviv to London. The airline made a mistake by putting asthmatic me in smoking. They had to bump my 8 yr old daughter with me because she would be too frightened to fly with strangers in another cabin area. That was almost 7-8 years ago. I think BA doesn't have smoking seats on international flights anymore so I am safe now.

Maybe it's my twisted sense of humor but I think it would be funny for Lauren to get her upgrade just so she could return and rub it in.

Mon-You are twisted! If you continue on reading through Lauren's posts you will find that the nicey nice attiutude she had was an act. Her real colors showed up a few posts down where she turned down right nasty. I think she was a "troll" all along. The original poster was answered in more ways than one---time to put this thread to bed. May it rest in peace.

I don't know about being 'bumped' into first class but I once saw a guy get 'bumped' into the Cockpit !!! Flying Business class from Manchester to Dublin a problem developed with the 'plane & the flight was eventually cancelled. After much reorganisation we were put on seperate, later flights. On my flight someone, as we say in the UK, "dropped a bollock" & when everyone had boarded & sat down there was one "extra" guy still standing with no seat for him. After a brief panic he was put onto the Flight Deck to sit behind the Pilots ! I don't know if this broke any rules of aviation or not but he spent the entire flight there....
For those wondering it was Aer Lingus
( Irish - say no more....... ).

I'm Baaaaack.
For the last post, I think there were quite some violations broken by Air Cunne-lingus. There's a reason why the cockpit door remains shut during a flight and a peep hole between the door. Not only were safety for the guy in the cockpit but for the passengers. What if the guy went nuts and grabed the wheel or something?
I'd sue. just kidding.

You know ME, I have just about had it with your vile, disgusting sense of humor!!! You are not even close to being funny! You are a pathetic individual obviously in need of some serious psychological help and/or medication! Do us all a favor and leave!

Hi Doc,
I'm sorry to hear that you are sick and tired of my remarks and humor. Am I not entitled to voice my opinion on this board just like everyone else? Just like you? What if I thought that some posters (like the guy who said that Lauren is a prostitute for asking to be bumped) were vile and disgusting. Should they leave too? What if I thought your post was 'out of line' ? How come you don't leave? I'm going to write what I want however I want and if you don't like it then you can kiss my "bumped to first class a**.

Have to agree with Doc ME. I have read some of your posts on other threads and you absolutely have no idea what you are talking about most of the time. From your stupid comments, I doubt if you have ever traveled anywhere but to the kitchen or bathroom-maybe you fly first class on your broom stick!! HA!HA!HA!

My broom stick has plenty of leg room and reclines.

I'm 6'5", with long legs and painfull knee problems and could really use the extra legroom. However, in 30 years of not too frequent (2-4 R/T'S per year) flying, I've never had the luck to be upgraded. In recent years, I've also fould it near impossible to book exit row or bulkhead seats. On a recent trip to Rome on Continental on a discount ticket, I had to stand in the aisle for 2/3 of the trip because it was too painfull in my middle seat. Luckily, on the return, even though I was told when checking in a full 3 hours before the departure time that no exit, bulkhead, or aisle seats were available, the plane took off with lots of empty aisle seats and an entire bulkhead row empty so I was able to change. I'd be glad to pay a few hundred dollars more for a few more inches of legroom but can't afford the several thousand dollar diffence for business or first class. My point is this: Why can't airlines offer reasonably sized no-frills seating at a reasonable premium?

Hello,

Everything else aside, I personally find that being tall (over 6ft)and checking in well in advance for legroom helps. All of my upgrades have occurred on Icelandair & SAS. Best of all, this has happened on flights that I paid less than $300 r/t for.

I do wonder if the fact that I am tall blonde quiet/reserved (scandinavian traits) works with these airlines? (No other airlines have offered to upgrade me.)

Disney is a big customer for United and sometimes they upgrade us employees just because of our loyal backing. Last month I landed a 1st class sleeper between Paris and LAX without even asking.

Lauren- Darling, you have done nothing more than post a simple and provocative question. You go, girl. I cannot believe the arrogance of some people on this site, for crying out loud! I, too, intend to request an upgrade when I fly to France later this year. No harm, no foul.

And Ryan, with the $2,000 you pay for your first class tickets, you should have gotten a better education.It's spelled FARE. People in glass houses... Ciao!

I have never asked or expected to be upgraded to first-class. However, my husband and I were upgraded because of a seat assignment mix-up by the airline. We were told we could not sit together in coach class. We were given the choice of sitting separately or waiting to see what was available. I indicated that as long as we boarded I would wait. We were pleasantly surprised at being seated in the first-class area. If it never happens again I must say I enjoyed the experience. By the way, seating location is no indicator of the decency of the person. The true measure is how people treat one another.

Wow, all this fluffle over a little question, whether innocent in intent or not! However, it's entertaining to check out the responses. As far as my experience goes, I remember that my older sister once got upgraded on a flight from Toronto to Edmonton back in the early eighties because she had her arm in a sling (she was told), but since I have a bad back and my boyfriend has a bad knee, we pay to upgrade to first class on longer flights, just for the increased comfort level. On shorter flights, we find we can manage in aisle seats across from each other. The really great part about having first class seats booked in advance? Sailing past the long checkin line-ups to the "first class" line with our (chronically overpacked) luggage in tow!

I really can't see why some of you are making such a BFD over this question. I didn't see where *anyone* felt entitled to an upgrade. It's not at all like going to a Chevy dealer and expecting a Cadillac- it's more like dealing down from the sticker price. I wish some of you saps that don't seem to mind paying full price would visit my auto dealership! Have I got a deal for you!