I have noticed several companies that advertize on the internet, claiming to provide upgrade secrets at a significant cost. If one is successful in obtaining an upgrade, then the cost would be worth it. I'm pushing 80 now and these old bones just can't handle cattle class anymore. I would appreciate anyone passing along their experience with any of these "upgrade companies".

Hi Ken --

I've never heard of any of these, but sounds tempting to these old bones as well.

Would it be possible for you to give us a link to one or two of these company ads?

Marian: One company that comes to mind is "Mr. Upgrade". (Sorry, I don't have their email address handy)....Ken

Ken, I am assuming that these companies are just giving you information on how to upgrade, not actually upgrading you.

I know nothing about the companies you mentioned, but before paying for information have you searched FlyerTalk.com? It is free and if you play around on the site you will find masses of information including upgrading.

Sheena: Your assumption is correct. The companies provide information only. Yes, I have viewed FlyerTalk info and it has been helpful. But, every bit of information concerning upgrades helps! The thought of flying from Seattle to London for nine and a half hours in coach (and then on to Italy) is too much to bear!

I believe that basically those sites all recommend different ways of getting elite status on airlines. That is really the only way to get upgrades these days. Some airlines (Continental being one) frequenly upgrade military personnel in uniform if they don't have enough elite level fliers on board. Cont. doesn't like to fly with empty FC seats. On the other hand, Delta & Northwest (which are my alternate airlines) don't seem to have a problem letting these seats go empty...go figure! For the cost of a meal, they could make a customer very happy!

I fly Continental almost exclusively, and almost always get an upgrade when I am flying on a plane which has first class. (I fly on regional jets a lot). Note that I fly a LOT, and am platinum level, and tend to buy some fairly high priced tickets (when my classes confirm late).

None of that helps on flying overseas...the only upgrades there come from buying higher priced tickets and using miles to upgrade from there.

I certainly wouldn't spend any money on "advice" for upgrades.

Anne

quote:

Originally posted by Ken Livingston:
The thought of flying from Seattle to London for nine and a half hours in coach (and then on to Italy) is too much to bear!

Living on the West Coast I totally agree.

Probably your best bet (guaranteed) is to buy a ticket then use points to upgrade.

I'm not sure if this tip will help you..

BUT I'll give it to you for free

We recently used our FF miles on UA for 2 economy tickets to Athens..flying from SFO

We then purchased an economy plus 1 year upgrade. For 259.00, 2 people can be upgrade up to the economy plus section on UA flights..so our flights to Frankfurt are on United and then onwards to Greece are Lufthansa. The 259.00 is good for as many flights on UA as you take in a 1 year period for the orginal purchaser and companion. The original purchaser must always us it and the companions can change!

Yes, it can be used with FF tickets.

Also, almostall airlines has a day pass for thier clubs for either 50.00 to 75.00...totally worth it if you have a long layover or if your ride to airport has to drop you off much earlier than you really need!

Another tip...Air France's upper deck is wonderful out of SFO..join their FF program and you will be 1st to be considered for an upgrade, they hold those seats back until airport check in. So, if you can be 1st in line your chances are even better.

We recieved that FREE upgrade two times!

A couple of things about United's Economy Plus annual upgrade subscription. First, at the moment the price is $349, though they do sometimes run specials. Second, it doesn't guarantee you an economy plus seat. You can get the upgrade when you get your ticket, but it is on a space-available basis. So the earlier you book, the better your chance of getting the upgrade.

if you do not have the FF miles and you cannot find a reasonable upgrade, consider buying an extra economy seat. two travelers, purchasing three seats, can at least guarantee themselves some shared wiggle room and at a much lower price than business or first class tickets.

Sheena,Anneo,where2next,KT and teezee: Many thanks for your inspired input; all of which will be tried. We have 50 plus thousand Alaska Airline miles accumulated....want to fly from Seattle to Sicily.....usually fly British Air....and are willing to fly during the somewhat low seasons: March/April or Sept./Oct.....Again, your input is appreciated...Ken L.

I'm just back from Europe; and flew United going over, and I have to say it was a great experience!
Friendly staff, delicious food, and lots of legroom.
When I got to the Chicago- London part, I overheard people buying an upgrade in class, so went up to the desk to inquire.
For $80 US, I believe it was,(Not sure now, as I can't find the receipt) they upgraded me to an aisle seat in Economy Plus,with seat back IFE screens, and I also had an empty seat next to me.
It was well worth it, and I arrived in London feeling not too bad.
Air Canada: take note!!!