Just returned from a cross Atlantic flight. We bought one Business ticket with FF miles, then at the airport they upgraded the other (coach ticket) so we flew both Business. Same thing coming back. I just asked for an upgrade as we were boarding...got it! So never say NO. It happens.

What airline was it?

I used to ask for upgrades on American Airlines overseas coming back to the US and usually got them, but almost never from the US out. I had a lot of miles in their program so they knew I was a good customer. But my experience in recent years has caused me to stop even asking. I should start again!<BR><BR>Yeah, Sandi, what airline was it?

American Airlines gate agents were told that they will loose their job, if they give a comp upgrade. So Marllyn, you're right, AA will not do a free upgrade anymore. Only when the flight is overbooked or one uses their miles to upgrade internationally. Executive Platinum members could also use their VIPOW's. On domestic flights one can buy upgrade stickers, price depending on your status with the airline. If Gold, Platinum or Ex Platinum you could use the stickers(one is good for 500 miles of travel) from any fare, while non status members could only use the stickers from the highest economy fare.

I'm an Elite One Pass member with Continental, and I,ve been given free upgrades to Paris and other European cities just by asking the gate agent very politely.<BR><BR>This doesn't happen frequently, but on a few occasions I've been lucky.

But I still want to know from Sandi, the original poster, which airline?

TO THE TOP!!!!!!!!!

Sorry folks, didn't get back to ya. It was on British Airlines, from the US to London, and reverse. We had those wonderful seats in Business that fold down flat. But I think you cannot do this ever with a coach ticket unless it is full fare. Upgrading the ticket to business was a living nightmare...seems that it IS possible but asking maxed out the system. Perhaps they gave us the complimentary upgrade as they felt sorry for us.