1. Be loyal
Joining a frequent flyer programme is still your best shot at getting a free flight upgrade. Airlines like rewarding their most loyal customers – so it’s time to start planning those trips! The more flights you rack up, the better your chances are of scoring that coveted Business Class seat. It’s as simple as that.
2. Use your miles
Another perk of being a frequent flyer is that you can use your miles to get a ticket upgrade. Not sure how to get started? Join a loyalty programme like Star Alliance, which covers dozens of airlines, including Singapore Airlines. That way, you can make sure you’re earning miles with every single trip you take.
3. Travel alone
Let’s face it: that last-minute upgrade you’re hoping for will never happen if you’ve got your entire family in tow. Solo travellers are more likely to get bumped up to the front of the plane, trying to explain to check-in staff why your grandma or auntie desperately needs that upgrade won’t work – the odds just aren’t in your favour.
Any chance of us all getting an upgrade?
4. Pick the right time to fly
Airlines won’t upgrade you on half-empty flights. With that in mind, you need to find a time of year that’s busy enough to justify an upgrade, but not insanely busy that it’s impossible (like Christmas). Your best bet could be during one of Singapore’s long weekend holidays; to maximise your chances, you might even want to pick a perennially popular flight route. Time to break out that calendar and start strategizing!
A little strategy goes a long way
5. Dress to impress
Okay, this one’s a bit of a long shot. But if by some chance there’s a spare seat in Business Class, who do you think they’re going to pick: the suavely dressed gentleman with impeccable hair or the guy in shorts and flip-flops?
It never hurts to look dapper
6. Be flexible
If your travel plans aren’t urgent, consider volunteering to be bumped if the flight is overbooked. In exchange for your flexibility, you’ll be in a better position to negotiate an upgrade for your next flight. It’s all about leverage, so use it wisely!
Giving up your seat just might get you an upgraded one
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