MissGreen

I've seen a few people mention getting a discounted upgrade at the airport on departure and just wondered what airlines do this? I'm from Australia and I haven't heard many airlines who fly from here discounting their airfares. I did an upgrade at the airport with Qantas and not only did I have to pay the full price difference, I had to pay a fee to change my ticket.

Thanks.

qwovadis

Almost all the US carriers and economic sell unused premium seating to econo
Passengers at substantial discounts just ask on check in if anything is available

Spirit.com one of my Favs $25 to upgrade first class big front seats

When I flew them last awesome values there.

J62

The upgrade you may have seen is likely to premium economy, not to business class or first class.

Spirit Airlines mentioned above is a very small airline with limited US destinations.

Different airlines have different descriptions for premium economy, but generally speaking it means 10-15 cm extra leg room. Usually the same coach seat. Same coach meal.

What kind of upgrade are you looking to get?

yestravel

UA will offer them. U have to ask. Used to be u could get them pretty often, but doesnt seem like they offer them as often now.

suze

They were doing that on US Air my recent trip Seattle to Mexico thru Phoenix. I didn't really pay attention to the details.

abram

Air Tran does it routinely--there's usually a sign at the ticket counter. It cost us $49 recently, and included checking two bags for free, which was helpful, as we were on a week long ski trip, with a suitcase each and a shared ski tube.

rkkwan

MissGreen - Are you talking about domestic flights in Australia, Canada or the US? Or are you talking about international longhauls?

NoFlyZone

Delta offers paid upgrades to first class on some domestic flights, depending on loads. But those upgrades only fill empty seats after any complimentary upgrades are given out.

AnselmAdorne

Air Canada offers last-minute upgrades to business class (J) on domestic, transborder (flights to the US), and international. If available, the offer displays when you check-in online or at the airport. Prices vary according to your existing fare class; they do not restrict it to full economy fares.

MissGreen

RKK...just wondering about any airline, no route specifically.

ekscrunchy

Do you have to be holding a certain letter-class of ticket to purchase a last-minute upgrade for an international flight? I am particularly interested in flights between the US and Europe, and the US and Asia.

NoFlyZone

Depends on the airline, eks... Delta requires K or higher for domestic cash purchased upgrades but does not sell cash purchased upgrades for most international.

yestravel

Not for United. I think the price may vary depending upon the letter class.

rkkwan

Not aware of any airlines offering it on US-Asia longhauls.

CarolA

Andy3,
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