Because a gate agent will have to sign off on any upgrades, it's not possible to make such a request online and must go through the representative at the podium, according to Leff. After you make your request, the gate agent will likely need to look into it and further assess what's possible.

You can certainly ask for a First Class upgrade at the gate, but in 2026, the likelihood of receiving one for free is extremely low due to automated standby lists and sophisticated revenue management systems. Most airlines now prioritize their elite frequent flyer members for any empty premium seats, and these upgrades are often processed automatically by the airline's software 24 to 72 hours before departure. However, asking the gate agent can still be beneficial for "last-minute" opportunities; agents sometimes offer discounted "day-of-departure" upgrades for a fixed cash price or a set number of miles if the cabin isn't full. This is often much cheaper than the original ticket price. To increase your chances, it is best to be polite, dress professionally (though not strictly required), and check the airline's mobile app first to see if an upgrade "buy-up" is available. Remember that gate agents are often under high pressure during the boarding process, so timing your inquiry before the main boarding rush begins is key to a successful interaction.