Is it cheaper to pay for an upgrade at the airport than buying a non-economy ticket beforehand?

Question

A friend of mine bought an economy ticket and upgraded for £300 on the way back from the USA. Much cheaper than buying a better ticket in the first place. Plus he had to pay on the plane and their machine wasn't working so got it for free.

Answer 1

It all depends on a few factors, especially the policies of the airline you are flying.

1. If you are an elite frequent flyer, you may be able to upgrade with e-upgrades or coupons. You will need to purchase the appropriate number of coupons depending upon the length of the flight and these upgrades are based upon availability.

2. You may be able to upgrade with frequent flyer miles.

3. If there are still unsold premium seats, the airline you are flying may try to pawn them off at the last minute by offering discount upgrades at the check in kiosk.

Answer 2

What an interesting question, and a brill idea. I travel a lot so I look forward to your answers.

Answer 3

Unless you're a frequent flyer and you purchase a ticket that is eligible to be upgraded - not the "lowest published fare" ticket, then it would be much cheaper to do it at the airport. But don't think the airline will let you upgrade your $50 ticket for $25  - there are more important people there who paid much more who they feel will be more worthy of the upgrade.

Answer 4

depends really, on availability etc once at airport

Answer 5

The previous posters all had good points, but I want to stress the key is availability..

If you really want to travel in a higher class, the only way to assure you do so is to purchase that class on booking.  As far as upgrades go, most carriers follow something along these lines in terms of class upgrades (I'm leaving out full price upgrades, of course they will always be happy to sell you a full fare ticket)..

1>  Highest frequent fliers (million milers, etc)

2>  Upgrades paid for with accumulated miles or points.

3>  Op-Ups.  (Operational upgrades, for example people overbooked on another flight)

4>  Frequent flier comp upgrades for lower tier members.

5>  Discounted cash upgrades

As you can see, seat availability has to fall through usually 4 levels before the option to pay for an upgrade exists.  How likely this is to happen depends on the route, time of year, and other factors....