The cost of upgrading an airplane seat varies wildly based on the airline, the route, and the timing of the request. For a domestic flight in the U.S., moving from Economy to First Class might cost anywhere from $50 to $500. On long-haul international routes, upgrading from Economy to Business Class can range from $500 to over $2,500. Airlines now use dynamic pricing for upgrades, meaning the price changes in real-time based on seat availability. You can often find "bid-for-upgrade" programs where you suggest a price you are willing to pay, or "last-minute" upgrades offered at the check-in kiosk or via the mobile app, which are generally cheaper than booking the premium seat outright. Additionally, if you use frequent flyer miles, an upgrade might cost between 15,000 and 60,000 miles plus a cash co-pay. It is important to note that "Basic Economy" tickets are frequently ineligible for any upgrades regardless of the price you are willing to pay, so checking your original fare class is the first step in determining your potential costs.