YOU could be scuppering your chances of a free upgrade next time you fly if you check in online.
Flight attendants have revealed how you are missing out on fancier seats if you don’t head to the check-in desks at the airport.
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A British Airways cabin crew member explained that they are not able to give out a complimentary seat upgrade on the flight.
They told travel money specialist Equals: “Some people ask the crew at the door of the aircraft for an upgrade, and some even bring us sweets thinking it will help get them what they want.
“We do get a lot of people asking for a free upgrade, especially if it’s their birthday – but there’s nothing we can do.”
You should instead ask for free upgrades when checking in at the airport.
Check in online and you miss this part altogether – and say goodbye to a better flight.
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They added: “Your best bet is to ask at the desk when you’re checking in.”
A Virgin crew member added that while it is unlikely you will get an upgrade free, better seats are “cheaper at check-in” so is worth the gamble at the airport.
Former airline worker Ben Payne added that it was “virtually impossible” to get an upgrade after check-in due to security purposes.
Other ways to reduce your chance of a seat upgrade include requesting a special meal, as this is less likely to be available in business or first class.
Nik Loukas, who used to work for Qantas, explained: “Because you’ve got a dietary requirement, they might not be able to cater for you if they upgrade you.”
One couple were given free meals from first class despite sitting in economy after they “fell asleep during service”.
A woman says she gets free upgrades by using the phrase “revenue management” which is when the seats are released.
We’ve revealed how to make your economy seat feel like a first class experience.
