Words: Charlie Gardiner-Hill
For those that know how, flying first class is neither costly nor difficult to achieve. These five pieces of golden knowledge are the keys to a world of luxury and exclusivity that makes flying an experience to be remembered.
Be a monogamous flier
Executive Platinum American Airlines member Casey Nesitat compared acquiring first class status with an airline to dating; “it’s fun to mess around with every bird in the sky, but, if you want her to love you back, she needs you to commit. In this case, she’s the airline.”
You need to fly a lot
In order to qualify for upgrades with most major airlines you have to spend a lot of time in the air. We aren’t talking about ‘air miles’ that you’ve collected from filling up your car; we’re talking about hard-earned flying miles – a lot of them. You’ll need to make a long haul flight at least 20 times a year to pull in the meatiest upgrades, so start begging for those business trips and planning those holidays. You’re going to need them.
Play the system
Airlines have extensive loyalty schemes and, although they seem inaccessible at first, once you’ve got them figured out their rewards are yours for the taking. Top tips for getting the royal treatment are; make friends with the staff (they’re the real movers and shakers) and getting your frequent flyer account properly set-up; read the fine print in all of their information packs, they’re trying to hide it for a reason.
Ask the right questions
All that being said, if you don’t fly a lot and you don’t like committing to one airline then there’s hope for you yet. When you get to the check-in desk you should know that there are certain reasons airlines will be happy to upgrade you; standing at over 6’4” or being claustrophobic will generally get you a golden ticket.
Dress the part
If you’ve failed at the check-in desk and you’re not a frequent flier, then your last hope is the staff at the boarding gate. Airlines often double book and someone has to be upgraded to avoid a customer relations nightmare. In this case, staff will choose a customer that reflects the exclusive atmosphere and doesn’t look like trouble. You don’t need to fly in a Savile Row suit but travelling in a stylish and, crucially, smart outfit will give you a good chance of getting that last minute upgrade.
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