Can you ask for an upgrade on Virgin Atlantic?

Contact us (click 'Manage my booking' and then 'I want to upgrade'). If you've got Virgin Points, we've got a Reward Seat with your name on it. See at a glance how many reward seats are available in the month for when you'd like to travel.



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Initially, passengers can contact their airline post-booking a flight to check for any paid upgrade availability. The next best option is to ask at the check-in desk of your flight.

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Start by introducing yourself and expressing your appreciation for the hotel's services. Then, explain why you think you deserve an upgrade - perhaps because of your loyalty as a frequent guest or because it's a special occasion like an anniversary or birthday.

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Realistically, it's a gamble and getting upgraded to business class at the airport is pretty rare. If luxury and extra legroom is really important to you, book it in advance. However, if you're perfectly willing to fly economy class, and willing to roll the dice, a last-minute upgrade can be the cheapest option.

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When it comes to upgrading to Virgin Premium or Upper Class, it's certainly worth it to make the most of your holiday. Both classes have dedicated check-in desks and priority, allowing you to bypass queues for a speedier start to your holiday. Upper Class, meanwhile, really ups the luxury.

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It depends on a variety of factors, including the airline, the route, the time of year, and the availability of seats. In some cases, upgrading at the airport can be a cost-effective way to experience Business Class perks without paying full price. In other cases, it may end up being more expensive.

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These tricks and ground rules are worth keeping in mind as you try to land that elusive free upgrade.
  1. Be a seriously loyal customer. ...
  2. Get an airline credit card. ...
  3. Dress neatly. ...
  4. Check in online at the earliest possible time. ...
  5. Be on time, and have good timing. ...
  6. Ask politely and directly. ...
  7. Be reasonable.


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All airlines have official policies as to when they'll upgrade loyalty program members. Unless an airline has a complimentary space available upgrade program in place, expect that you'll only receive a free upgrade if it's for operational reasons (like if economy is oversold).

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Some airlines have a policy of upgrading by only one level, so if you're hoping to get a business class seat, make sure your original ticket is the grade below that (usually premium economy or equivalent). Not all fares can be upgraded however, so don't buy a cheap fare with that expectation.

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Realistically, it's a gamble and getting upgraded to business class at the airport is pretty rare. If luxury and extra legroom is really important to you, book it in advance. However, if you're perfectly willing to fly economy class, and willing to roll the dice, a last-minute upgrade can be the cheapest option.

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To explore available upgrades, log into My Booking and browse the seat map. Hover or tap on your preferred seat to view pricing and pay for your upgrade online. If you've got Virgin Points, we've got a Reward Seat with your name on it.

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Virgin Atlantic premium economy offers an elevated way to fly across the Atlantic — and potentially onward to one of the airline's dozens of overseas destinations. Premium economy seats feature lots of extra legroom, a deeper recline, larger in-flight entertainment screens and a footrest.

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Upgrade Your Air Travel: 10 Tips to Score a First-Class Seat
  1. Join airline loyalty programs.
  2. Volunteer to be bumped.
  3. Use offers from your credit cards.
  4. Book flights during off-peak times.
  5. Check for available upgrades online.
  6. Consider late flight offers.
  7. Arrive early for check-in.
  8. Bid for an upgrade.


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On almost every flight, the passengers who get upgrades are either the ones who pay for them (whether in dollars or miles) in advance or frequent fliers with elite status who receive complimentary upgrades as part of their perks. There are very few exceptions, so don't expect to score a free upgrade by just asking.

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