How to Upgrade to First Class on United Airlines

Upgrading to first class on United Airlines is easy if you know a few tricks.

When flying on United Airlines, especially on longer or international flights, sitting in coach can seem like a daunting prospect. The luxuries of first class seating on United--spacious seating, complimentary alcoholic beverages, gourmet meals and a range of audio and visual entertainment options--can be too hard to pass up. United offers its Mileage Plus account members the option to upgrade their tickets to first class on its website or at check-in kiosks at the airport. However, if you are not a Mileage Plus member, there are other possibilities for first class upgrades.

Instructions

1. Request a "Y UP," "H UP," or "Q UP" fare when purchasing your ticket. These are upgradeable ticket fares which may initially be higher than discount (i.e. non-upgradeable) tickets, but will greatly increase your chances at a free or reduced upgrade at check-in.

2. Arrive at the airport dressed nicely. Airline ticket agents are more likely to upgrade you to first class if you look the part.

3. Ask for any available free first class upgrades when checking in. If you arrive to the airport early, and are taking an early flight, there may be seats available in first class if the coach section is overbooked.

4. Board the plane at the last possible minute. If the coach section has filled up, you may be automatically given a free upgrade to first class.

5. Pay for the upgrade to first class if no free upgrades are available and you still wish to sit in first class. The upgrade cost will likely be less than buying a full fare first class ticket if you have purchased an upgradeable ticket.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember: a little politeness and a smile goes a long way toward convincing an overworked ticket agent to give you a free upgrade.

• Tickets that are not eligible for an upgrade include those with a "G" booking code, award or "comp" tickets, and tickets that have already been upgraded.

References

• United Airlines - Milleage Plus Upgrade Awards
• United Airlines - First Class In Flight Services
• The New York Times - Strategies for Upgrading Airline Tickets
• Cheaptickets.com - Airline Upgrade Guide and Tips

Resources

• United
• Smarter Travel - Buy a better seat: Upgrade from coach to first class for under $50
• First Class Flyer