Going on Honeymoon - want to get flight upgraded for free!?

Question

OK, so my wife to be and I are going from Dublin to Cancan (via Atlanta on Triton airlines) at the beginning of September. I looked into going business class but it would be an extra grand! So, I have heard that it is possible to get your flight upgraded, in fact my fiancé knows a couple of people who have been. Can anyone tell me what our best chances are? Should we turn up earlier, or later? Should we dress smart, casual, or smart casual? Should I just say to them that we're on our honeymoon and could they upgrade us? Does anyone know how this might work, and offer us any tips?

Answer 1

You won't get a free upgrade. Those days are gone. The days of upgrading to first class for fifty bucks are gone.

However, if your airline has a mileage membership you can qualify for a reduced price upgrade, provided you are a premium member. For example, Continental OnePass Elite. People your fiancée knows most likely have memberships in one of these services.

Airlines are overbooking planes nowadays in order to keep costs down. Upgrades are going to be rare.

Oh, before I forget, Cancún is your destination. Cancan is a line dance performed by the French.

Answer 2

I work for a U.S. based airline and I'm not sure how it works at other places but some agents might be willing to upgrade you and your new wife (congratulations!) if you tell them you are on your honeymoon. I would show up early, dress nicely (no shorts, tennis shoes, or t shirts) and ask about the upgrade at the ticket counter when you check in or at the gate if you use electronic check in. Most likely they can accomplish this at the gate only after they have upgraded the people who are eligible (frequent fliers normally). Some airlines also offer upgrades for sale the day of the flight for a discount (In the U.S. usually around $50-100).  Dress for the class of the airplane that you want to ride in. Smart casual should work just fine. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

Best chance - pay the money!

Answer 4

ask when you check in say any chance then if not ask on the plane

Answer 5

Ah, the upgrade myth.

Free upgrades don't exist anymore, it'll only happen if the plane is overbooked and then those belonging to the airline's frequent flyer scheme will be upgraded first. I fly regularly and I've heard all the stories given at check-in. Dressing smart, saying you feel ill and it's my birthday/honeymoon - the ground crew hear this several times a day.

If you want nicer seats pay for them, don't expect something for nothing.