Are you tired of sitting in cramped seats on your flights? Do you dream of experiencing the luxury of first-class travel? If so, you’re not alone. Many travelers wonder how they can score an upgrade on Alaska Airlines, but the process can often seem elusive and confusing.
Fortunately, we have all the answers you need to get that coveted upgrade. In this article, we will unravel the mystery and share the insider secrets to securing an upgrade on Alaska Airlines. From complimentary upgrades for elite members to cash and miles upgrades, we will cover it all. So, buckle up and prepare to elevate your flying experience to new heights!
But first, let’s start with the most pressing question: How exactly do you get an upgrade on Alaska Airlines? Is it just a matter of luck or is there a special formula? The answer may surprise you. Keep reading to discover the strategies and tips that will help you increase your chances of enjoying the perks of first-class travel without breaking the bank.
Complimentary Upgrades for Alaska Elite Members
As an Alaska Airlines elite member, you have exclusive access to complimentary upgrades on Alaska-operated flights. Whether you’re an MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K, or MVP Gold 100K member, you can enjoy the luxury of upgrading to Premium class and First Class.
With this perk, you can elevate your travel experience and indulge in the extra comfort and amenities offered in Premium class and First Class cabins. These upgrades are subject to availability, but Alaska Airlines prioritizes elite members when allocating upgrade seats.
Requesting Upgrades:
When it comes to upgrades, you have flexibility and options. For Premium class upgrades, you can request or even clear them instantly, depending on your elite tier and fare class. This allows you to secure a more comfortable seat well before your flight departure.
If you aspire to the ultimate luxury of First Class, you can request an upgrade at the time of booking. Alternatively, you can also wait for the upgrade to be cleared within the eligible upgrade window.
Priority and Eligibility:
Alaska Airlines prioritizes upgrades based on several factors. These include your elite status level, fare class, million miler milestone, and the time of your booking. The airline aims to provide an equitable upgrade experience for all Elite members, ensuring that those who frequently fly with Alaska get the recognition and benefits they deserve.
Companion Upgrades:
Alaska Airlines also extends the privilege of complimentary upgrades to your travel companions. MVP Gold, Gold 75K, and Gold 100K members can request upgrades for their companions, allowing everyone in your party to enjoy the journey in enhanced comfort and style.
Upgrade opportunities for Alaska elite members enhance the overall travel experience, making your flights with Alaska Airlines even more rewarding.
| Elite Tier | Eligible Upgrades |
|---|---|
| MVP Member | Premium class |
| MVP Gold Member | Premium class, First Class |
| MVP Gold 75K Member | Premium class, First Class |
| MVP Gold 100K Member | Premium class, First Class |
Complimentary Upgrades for American Elite Members
American Airlines AAdvantage elite members, including Executive Platinum and Platinum Pro, are eligible for upgrades to First Class on Alaska Airlines flights. This exclusive benefit allows you to enjoy a luxurious flying experience with enhanced comfort and premium amenities. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, these complimentary upgrades add an extra touch of luxury to your journey.
Upgrade eligibility extends to all ticket types, except for Saver fares, ensuring that you have a chance to experience the best that Alaska Airlines has to offer. By avoiding Saver fares, you can maximize your chances of securing an upgrade and indulging in the perks of First Class.
When it comes to the upgrade process, American elite members have the advantage of being able to confirm their upgrade as early as 120 hours before departure. This provides you with ample time to plan your trip and secure your enhanced travel experience.
In addition to upgrades to First Class, American elite members also have the opportunity to upgrade to Premium class on Alaska Airlines flights. This allows you to enjoy a higher level of comfort, additional legroom, and priority boarding.
The priority for American elite members is determined by fare class and request date and time. By understanding the upgrade prioritization process, you can maximize your chances of securing a complimentary upgrade and elevate your travel experience to new heights.
With complimentary upgrades for American elite members, Alaska Airlines provides a seamless and luxurious travel experience that rewards your loyalty and status. Take advantage of this exclusive benefit and elevate your journey by experiencing the comfort and amenities of First Class and Premium class.
Cash or Miles Upgrades
If you’re a Mileage Plan member, you have the option to upgrade your eligible tickets to first class on Alaska-operated flights using either cash or miles. Upgrading with miles is a convenient way to enjoy the luxurious experience of flying first class without the high price tag. Here’s how you can use either cash or miles to upgrade your ticket:
Upgrade with Miles
Using miles to upgrade your ticket is a great way to maximize the value of your Mileage Plan rewards. To be eligible for a miles upgrade, your ticket must be in one of the five most expensive economy fare classes: Y, B, H, K, or M. These fare classes are typically associated with more flexible and higher-priced tickets.
To find out if an upgrade is available for your desired flight, you can use ExpertFlyer. This online tool allows you to check upgrade availability and plan your travel accordingly. It’s always a good idea to check in advance, as availability for miles upgrades may vary depending on the flight and date.
Cash Upgrades
If you prefer the flexibility of cash upgrades, Alaska Airlines also offers the option to upgrade your ticket within 24 hours of departure. Cash upgrades can be done either during online check-in or at the airport, depending on seat availability. Please note that cash upgrades are subject to seat availability and may not always be guaranteed. It’s recommended to check in early or contact Alaska Airlines customer service to inquire about cash upgrade availability.
| Cash Upgrades | Miles Upgrades | |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Within 24 hours before departure | Subject to availability and fare class |
| Flexibility | Dependent on seat availability | Subject to availability and fare class |
| Booking Method | Online check-in or at the airport | Through Mileage Plan program |
| Payment Method | Cash or credit card | Redeeming miles |
Whether you choose to upgrade with cash or miles, Alaska Airlines provides you with the flexibility to enhance your travel experience and enjoy the comforts of first class. Upgrade availability may vary, so it’s always recommended to check in advance and plan accordingly.
Upgrade Waitlist and Request Queue
When it comes to upgrading on Alaska Airlines, there are two important lists to keep in mind: the upgrade waitlist and the upgrade request queue. These lists play a crucial role in determining who gets the coveted complimentary upgrades.
The upgrade waitlist consists of passengers who are within the eligible window for a complimentary upgrade. This means that if you meet the criteria for an upgrade based on your elite status, fare class, million miler status, and time of booking, you will be placed on this list. Alaska Airlines prioritizes passengers on the upgrade waitlist and processes upgrades based on these factors until approximately 1 hour prior to departure.
On the other hand, the upgrade request queue is for passengers who are not yet within the eligible window for a complimentary upgrade. If you have requested an upgrade but do not meet the criteria for immediate clearance, you will be placed on the request queue. Once you become eligible for an upgrade, you will be moved from the request queue to the upgrade waitlist.
Both the upgrade waitlist and request queue take into account factors such as elite status, fare class, million miler status, and time of booking to determine the priority for upgrades. It’s important to note that upgrades are not guaranteed and are subject to availability.
| Factors | Priority |
|---|---|
| Elite status | Higher status receives higher priority |
| Fare class | Eligible fare classes receive higher priority |
| Million miler status | Higher million miler status receives higher priority |
| Time of booking | Earlier bookings receive higher priority |
Additional Upgrade Information
When flying with Alaska Airlines, there are some additional upgrade options and considerations that you need to be aware of. Firstly, if you have booked a Premium class ticket, you have the opportunity to upgrade to First Class if there is availability and if your fare class is eligible. However, it’s important to note that if you choose to opt out of Premium class upgrades, you will be skipped during the upgrade process.
Upgrade eligibility may vary in certain circumstances, such as when traveling with a pet in the cabin or when traveling with more than one companion. These factors can impact your chances of securing an upgrade, so it’s essential to plan accordingly and check the specific rules for your situation.
For American Airlines AAdvantage members, there is an additional option to receive American Upgrade Codes that can be used for upgrades on Alaska Airlines flights. To qualify for these codes, you must meet the necessary criteria set by the AAdvantage program. This provides you with an alternative avenue to potentially secure upgrades and enhance your travel experience.
Both Alaska Airlines and American Airlines have specific upgrade priorities based on their respective elite status levels and fare classes. Understanding where you stand in terms of your status and fare class can give you insight into your chances of receiving an upgrade. Keep in mind that upgrade availability is limited and subject to various factors, so it’s always best to check with the airlines and plan accordingly to maximize your chances of a successful upgrade.
FAQ
Q: How do I get an upgrade on Alaska Airlines?
A: Upgrades on Alaska Airlines can be obtained through various methods, including eligibility based on elite status, fare class, and time of booking. It is important to note that upgraded seats are limited and subject to availability.
Q: Do Alaska elite members receive complimentary upgrades?
A: Yes, members of Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan™ program with Elite status, including MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K, and MVP Gold 100K, are eligible for complimentary upgrades to Premium class and First Class on Alaska-operated flights.
Q: What about American Airlines elite members?
A: American Airlines AAdvantage elite members, such as Executive Platinum and Platinum Pro, can also enjoy upgrades to First Class on Alaska Airlines flights, except for Saver fares. Upgrades can be confirmed as early as 120 hours before departure.
Q: Can I use my miles to upgrade my ticket?
A: Yes, Mileage Plan members can use their miles to upgrade eligible tickets to First Class on Alaska-operated flights. The fare class must be one of the five most expensive economy fare classes (Y, B, H, K, or M) to be eligible for an upgrade.
Q: How does the upgrade waitlist and request queue work?
A: Alaska Airlines has two separate lists for upgrades. The upgrade waitlist includes passengers within the eligible window for a complimentary upgrade, while the upgrade request queue includes passengers who are not yet within the eligible window. The priority for both lists is determined by elite status, fare class, million miler status, and time of booking.
Q: Can I upgrade from Premium class to First Class?
A: Yes, passengers can upgrade from Premium class to First Class on Alaska Airlines if space becomes available and if the fare class is eligible. However, passengers who opt out of Premium class upgrades will be skipped during the upgrade process.
Q: Are there any additional upgrade considerations?
A: Yes, upgrade eligibility may vary if traveling with a pet in the cabin or if traveling with more than one companion. Additionally, American Airlines AAdvantage members who meet the qualification criteria can receive American Upgrade Codes for upgrades on Alaska Airlines flights.