Six tips to get a free upgrade from economy to first class

IT'S actually a bit easier than you think. An industry insider gives you the six tips you need if you want an airline upgrade without paying for it.

Alone, discreet, well-dressed. An ideal candidate for a free upgrade.

YOU get screaming babies and armrest bandits, while they get bottomless flutes of bubbly and enough free newspapers to papier mache a 747.

The gap between the front half of a plane and your crummy seat at the back is more than just a physical divide - it's a stinging reminder that money can, in fact, buy happiness in the form of sheer comfort.

But it doesn't have to be this way. You can join the aeroplane elite even if your wallet says you don't belong there.

Don't be crass about it though - there's an art to securing an upgrade. Delta Airlines program manager Rebecca Simon talked through it with the Huffington Post.

BE COOL

The first step to being considered for an upgrade is an even temperament.

Air travel is a moving feast, so if you're cool, calm and collected no matter what is thrown at you, you'll stand out for not standing out. A good thing.

"Nothing in life is guaranteed, including travel," Simon advises.

"Things change every minute, so if your flight is delayed, your seat is switched, your soft drink is flat, remind yourself that things happen. The more calm and polite you are, the happier you, and all of those other frustrated passengers around you, will be," advises Simon.

BE AWARE

Alone, discreet, well-dressed. An ideal candidate for a free upgrade.

Use common sense to take the temperature of the situation, and think about whether you're any real chance on an upgrade.

If you're flying between major business hubs (say, an early morning flight between two capital cities) it's unlikely there's going to be any room left in business class, so don't waste your breath.

But if you're on a less popular route, politely and discreetly let the gate attendant know you'd be interested in any available upgrades.

Seems obvious, right? Who wouldn't be interested in an upgrade? The difference between those who want them and those that get them is just letting someone know.

But don't make a show of it. That will lead to copycats and the crew will be bombarded with similar requests, diluting your chances.

BE SUITABLE

Trackpants and thongs aren't going to cut it in the ritzier sections of the plane, so dress like you belong there.

First class cabins house the most frequent business travellers, so be sure to look like one.

BE ALONE

Sorry, but your days of free upgrades end when you travel with kids in tow.

One might be the loneliest number, but it's also the best for getting upgraded.

If you're travelling as a pair, a group, or (God forbid) with children, you can pretty much forget a luxe freebie. Sorry. But at least you have the love of your children, so that's something.

BE A WALLFLOWER

Once you've made that initial approach to the crew, keep a low profile.

You want to remain in the minds of the gatekeepers, but don't pester them with frequent reminders, Simon advises the Huffington Post.

Stay visible to the gate agent but keep in mind it's a busy time for them and getting you a free upgrade isn't their top priority.

BE GRATEFUL

If the last five tips all paid off for you, it's time to express your gratitude.

Be gracious in accepting the upgrade, but be discreet about it. A kind word and a genuine smile will do just fine.

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