There really are not any guaranteed ways to get an upgrade from the lowest class of traveling (economy) on your next business trip. Often times, it is more because you are entitled to a bump to business or first class because you fly a lot. Or, you might get lucky because you happen to be flying on a plane that was greatly under or over sold. However, there are some things you can do to increase your odds of getting an upgrade so that you can fly to your business meeting in style.

First, you should make sure you are in the highest possible tier of the regular flyer program of the airline you are traveling. Make sure that you have an upgrade certificate that is valid. In the case where you are not in the highest tier, then you should be traveling with one of your business associates who IS in the top tier.

In the case where you are in that top tier of the business’s program for people who travel a lot, this means if you are on flight that was overbooked, you will be more likely to receive a better ticket. Also, if you are on a full fare airline ticket and are on a flight that was oversold, you have a higher chance of an upgrade.

Things can work out well for you as well if you happen to be on a flight that is empty. In this case, the weight of the plane can be a problem, as well as balance. The airline may require that some passengers get upgraded. For this to happen to you, it is ideal if you are seated in the middle of the plane.

In the case where you are a member of the programs One World or Star Alliance, and you are on an airline flight that was oversold, you have a very high chance of getting an upgrade, too.

Being on an oversold flight and you do not travel often and are on an inexpensive ticket, you should volunteer to have your seat given to someone else. You are likely to get an upgrade. It may not be on the original flight, but it may be on the one you were rebooked on.

Another smart idea on an oversold flight and you are business traveling alone, is to make sure you are dressed in business garb and sitting all by yourself in the airport gate. Try to be in the line of sight of the agent at the gate of the plane you are flying. There are times at the last moment when the airline needs to upgrade a few people at the very last second before a flight. A solo business traveler who is dressed well is more likely to get a better flight ticket than someone poorly dressed.

Remember that being friendly and smiling a lot can really help you, at least in the United States. Try to be very nice to the agents at check in and the gate agents, and they may remember you if the flight is oversold. They may make a note that you were one of the nicest people in line, and you will get a better ticket if the opportunity arises.

If you follow these tips, you may end up traveling in class on your next business trip at an economy price.

Dabney Properties is the leading resource for the corporate, government and military traveler. Visit our website to see why we are the major alternative to expensive hotels in Fort Lee, Petersburg.

Dabney Properties is the leading resource for the corporate, government and military traveler. Visit our website to see why we are the major alternative to expensive hotels in Fort Lee. http://www.dabneyproperties.com

Author Bio: Dabney Properties is the leading resource for the corporate, government and military traveler. Visit our website to see why we are the major alternative to expensive hotels in Fort Lee, Petersburg.

Category: Travel
Keywords: flights, travel, business flights, flight upgrades, travel tips