5 Insider Secrets For Getting Upgraded On United Airlines Flights

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Have you ever dreamed of flying first class but didn’t want to break the bank? Well, United Airlines may have a solution for you. With these five insider secrets, you can increase your chances of getting upgraded on United Airlines flights without having to pay extra.

From leveraging your loyalty status to knowing the right time to ask for an upgrade, these tips will not only help you score a better seat but also enhance your overall travel experience. So, fasten your seatbelt and get ready to learn how to fly in style with United Airlines.

5 Insider Secrets for Getting Upgraded on United Airlines Flights

5 Insider Secrets for Getting Upgraded on United Airlines Flights

United Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world and offers a range of services to its passengers. One of the most sought-after services is an upgrade to business or first class. United Airlines offers several ways to upgrade your ticket, but it can be challenging to know the best ways to increase your chances of getting an upgrade. Here are five insider secrets for getting upgraded on United Airlines flights.

1. Join United Airlines’ MileagePlus Program

The MileagePlus Program is United Airlines’ loyalty program that rewards frequent flyers with miles that can be redeemed for upgrades, free flights, and other benefits. Signing up for the program is free, and you can earn miles by flying with United Airlines or its partner airlines, using a United Airlines credit card, or shopping with participating retailers.

To increase your chances of getting an upgrade, you should aim to earn elite status within the MileagePlus Program. Elite members receive priority for upgrades, and the higher your elite status, the better your chances of getting an upgrade. You can earn elite status by flying a certain number of miles or segments with United Airlines or its partner airlines.

2. Purchase a Full-Fare Economy Ticket

United Airlines prioritizes upgrades based on fare class, with full-fare economy tickets having the highest priority. If you are willing to pay for a full-fare economy ticket, you are more likely to get an upgrade than if you purchase a discount fare ticket.

Another way to increase your chances of getting an upgrade is to book your ticket early. United Airlines prioritizes upgrades based on the time of booking, with earlier bookings having a higher priority.

3. Use Your United Airlines Credit Card

United Airlines offers several credit cards, including the United Explorer Card and the United Club Card. These cards offer a range of benefits, including priority boarding, checked bag fee waivers, and miles that can be redeemed for upgrades.

Using your United Airlines credit card to book your flight can increase your chances of getting an upgrade. United Airlines prioritizes upgrades based on fare class and elite status, but using your United Airlines credit card can also give you an edge.

4. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

If you are flexible with your travel dates, you can increase your chances of getting an upgrade. United Airlines is more likely to offer upgrades on flights that are less busy, such as midweek flights or flights during off-peak travel periods.

Another way to be flexible is to volunteer to take a later flight if your flight is overbooked. United Airlines may offer you an upgrade as compensation for your inconvenience.

5. Be Polite and Professional

Finally, being polite and professional can go a long way in getting an upgrade on United Airlines. If you are polite and friendly to the gate agent or flight attendant, they may be more likely to offer you an upgrade.

It’s essential to remember that upgrades are not guaranteed, and United Airlines has its policies for offering upgrades. However, by following these insider secrets, you can increase your chances of getting an upgrade on your next United Airlines flight.

Benefits of Upgrading to Business or First Class

Upgrading to business or first class on United Airlines can offer several benefits, including:

  • More comfortable seats with extra legroom and recline
  • Better food and beverage options
  • Access to airport lounges
  • Premium amenities such as noise-canceling headphones and bedding
  • Prioritized baggage handling

Business Class vs. First Class

United Airlines offers both business and first-class cabins on its long-haul international flights. The main differences between the two cabins are:

Business Class First Class
Seats Lie-flat seats with extra legroom and privacy dividers Suites with fully enclosed seats, personal storage, and direct aisle access
Food and Beverage Restaurant-quality meals and premium alcoholic beverages Multi-course meals prepared by celebrity chefs and premium wine and champagne
Amenities Noise-canceling headphones and bedding Personalized service and luxury amenities such as pajamas and skincare products

In conclusion, upgrading to business or first class on United Airlines can make your flight more comfortable and enjoyable. By following these insider secrets, you can increase your chances of getting an upgrade on your next United Airlines flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn some insider tips and tricks for getting upgraded on United Airlines flights with these frequently asked questions.

What is the first step to getting upgraded on United Airlines flights?

The first step to getting upgraded on United Airlines flights is to become a member of their MileagePlus loyalty program. This program offers different tiers of membership, with the highest tier offering the best chance for upgrades.

Additionally, it is important to book your flight as early as possible and to choose a flight that is likely to have open seats in first or business class. This will increase your chances of being upgraded.

What are some other ways to increase your chances of getting upgraded?

Another way to increase your chances of getting upgraded on United Airlines flights is to dress nicely and be polite to the gate agents and flight attendants. They have the power to make upgrade decisions and will be more likely to upgrade someone who is friendly and respectful.

You can also try to negotiate an upgrade by offering to pay a discounted rate or using your miles to upgrade. However, this is not guaranteed and depends on availability and the discretion of the airline.

How can I use my miles to upgrade on United Airlines flights?

To use your miles to upgrade on United Airlines flights, you must first have enough miles in your MileagePlus account. You can then log in to your account and search for eligible flights to upgrade.

If there is availability, you can use your miles to upgrade to a higher class of service. The number of miles required for an upgrade varies based on the flight and the class you are upgrading to.

What should I do if I am not upgraded on my United Airlines flight?

If you are not upgraded on your United Airlines flight, there are still some things you can do to make your flight more comfortable. You can bring your own snacks and entertainment, or purchase these items on the flight.

You can also try to select a seat with extra legroom or bring a travel pillow and blanket to make your seat more comfortable.

Are there any other benefits to being a member of the MileagePlus program?

Yes, there are several benefits to being a member of the MileagePlus program. Members can earn miles on flights and purchases with United Airlines and their partners, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and more.

Members also have access to exclusive perks, such as priority boarding, free checked bags, and lounge access. The higher your tier of membership, the more benefits you will receive.

5 Tips For Flying United Airlines (DO NOT MISS THIS)


In conclusion, getting upgraded on United Airlines flights can be a reality if you follow these insider secrets. First, make sure you are a loyal United Airlines customer and join their frequent flyer program. Second, choose the right flights and times to increase your chances of getting upgraded. Third, dress appropriately and be polite to the gate agents and flight attendants. All of these tips, combined with a bit of luck, can help you secure that coveted upgrade and make your flight experience even better. So, next time you fly with United Airlines, remember these insider secrets and give yourself a chance to fly in style. Happy travels!

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