In these tough times, Airline companies are constantly trying to create as much profit as possible from the same flights, airplanes and services. That means they are cramming more people into the same planes, cutting back on the amenities and basically treating travelers like packages or battery hens instead of people.
Even though it doesn’t feel like it, the cost of airline tickets have fallen dramatically compared to just a decade back (especially when you figure in inflation). Unfortunately for those choosing air travel, the experience has also fallen. If you are willing to pay a few extra dollars (okay - a LOT of extra dollars) then you can upgrade your seating and find the air travel experience of the old days.
Economy travel - ever feel like you’re being treated like cattle?
Many airlines offer Upgraded flyers a special line for getting to the airplane faster and easier and upgraded seating usually offers a separate boarding area also, many airlines have lounge areas for the Upgraded flyers to enjoy during layovers and delays. So, basically, the benefits of upgrading your ticket start before the plane even leaves the ground!
Once onboard, the Upgraded seats receive more space, better seating, and more attention from the flight attendants. The Upgraded section usually has a designated attendant (for the 20 or so seats) compared to the three attendants for the economy section (of 200 or so passengers).
Sometimes in economy, you never even see these people
Many airlines still offer nice snacks and free drinks to the Upgraded seats. Often the meals are served on actual dishes with real silverware instead of plastic. Even the food is a better quality sometimes cooked to order by an in-flight chef. Some of the future amenities that will be available for many of the Upgraded seats are all about making your flying experience more enjoyable. Massage chairs that fold down into beds, on-demand movies, and even game rooms or libraries are all on the list of possible benefits to the Upgraded seats. Some of them are already being implemented in limited quantities.
First class seats, first class food
Food and treats aside, the best thing about Upgraded seats is the space. There are only two seats to the economy sections three seats. That means there is more room to put your carry on baggage and for you to be able to stretch out as well. Some airlines are even creating special “cubicle” spaces that give you privacy AND space during your flight. There is no question that the Upgraded experience is better than being crammed in the back of the economy section of the airplane. The question isn’t about which is better but more about which is the better value. It then becomes a matter of personal choice (and also personal finances).
First class travel. Lots of space
Most families can not afford the cost of Upgraded seats (which may be one of the reasons that the Upgraded sections are usually a bit quieter). The average ticket can cost 3 or 4 times as much as the typical economy seat on the same flight. The free drinks and snacks and even the great food will never make up the difference in the cost of the tickets. On the simple basis of monetary value, the Upgrade is never worth it. You get the same trip for a huge savings when you choose to fly in economy. When you take into account the amenities and benefits of the Upgrades then it is probably worth the cost. Spending the extra money means that you get more than just a flight, you get an experience.
Some families could never afford the price of an upgrade
There are some people who will never be able to bring themselves to spend the extra money for the experience of the Upgrade. Even they can still hope for the perfect in-flight moment. It is possible to get a free (or at least discounted) Upgrade. Most of these go to loyalty customers, but there are some other tips that may get you to the top of the list (and the front of the plane).
- Be very polite and courteous when asking for the upgrade, no matter what response you get from the airline agent.
- Dress the part. Think of the Upgrade section of the plane like you would a fine dining restaurant.
- Take the bump. Since so many airlines are overbooking flights, many will offer an Upgrade to those willing to give up their seats for the next flight.
- Travel alone. It is easier to get an Upgrade for one than for a large group.
- Arrive early. There is a lot to be said about the old adage “an early bird gets the worm.”
- Ask for the Upgrade. Keep the request discrete and out of earshot of other passengers (or ask for the Upgrade when you book the ticket with the airline). Most of the time they will say no, but there is always a chance.
This may await you, and it may be worth doing if you’re flying ultra-long haul anyway.
Financially speaking, an Upgrade is probably not worth the cost. But the Upgrade is hard to beat when you are talking about the experience; and if you’re flying those ultra-long haul filghts, you may want to buy an upgrade anyway.