Flight upgrades are one of the most searched and misunderstood airline perks. Many travelers assume upgrades are random, but in reality, airlines follow very specific priority rules.

Until recently we’ve never managed to get an upgrade and now we realise there is a system in place. Youhave to play the game right! So how to get flight upgrades is in our guide below which explains how flight upgrades actually work and how you can improve your chances on Delta, American, and United. Good luck or in bocca al lupo!

How Airline Upgrades Really Work

Most U.S. airlines use an automated upgrade list, which ranks passengers based on multiple factors not just frequent flyer status.

Common Upgrade Priority Factors

Elite status level
Fare class paid
Co-branded credit card ownership
Time of check-in
Million miler or lifetime status

Delta Air Lines Upgrade Tips

Delta is known for its transparent upgrade lists in the app. They have a same day change guide.

How to Improve Delta Upgrade Odds

Hold Medallion status (Silver or higher)
Book higher-priced Main Cabin fares
Carry a Delta SkyMiles credit card
Avoid Basic Economy tickets
Check in exactly 24 hours before departure

Delta often clears upgrades before boarding, so monitoring the app is key.

United Airlines Upgrade Strategy

United relies heavily on elite status and fare class.

United Upgrade Tips

Premier status matters more than credit cards
Paid upgrades and PlusPoints clear before complimentary upgrades
Midweek flights have higher success rates
Hub-to-hub routes are the hardest to upgrade

American Airlines Upgrade Rules

American’s system is less transparent but still predictable.

How to Improve Upgrade Chances on American

Elite status is critical
Upgrades clear closer to departure
Smaller airports offer better odds
Avoid peak travel days

Best Flights for Free Upgrades

If upgrades matter to you, aim for:

Early morning or late-night flights
Non-hub airports
Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Short-haul routes

Common Upgrade Myths (Debunked)

Dressing well DOES NOT guarantees upgrades
Asking gate agents DOES NOT help
Loyalty alone DOES NOT beats fare price

Sorry! The real answer here is:

Status + fare + timing actually matter

Flight upgrades aren’t luck they’re strategy. Travelers who understand airline algorithms, fare classes, and timing consistently outperform casual flyers.

When paired with smart same day flight change strategies, upgrades become much more achievable especially on Delta.

FAQs

How do flight upgrades work on U.S. airlines?
Airline upgrades are assigned using automated priority lists, not randomly. Passengers are ranked based on elite status, fare class, credit card ownership, and check-in time. Higher-ranked travelers receive available premium seats first when upgrades clear.

Does elite status guarantee a flight upgrade?
No. Elite status improves your chances, but upgrades depend on seat availability, route demand, and fare class. Higher-status travelers are prioritized.

What flights are easiest to get upgraded on?
The best way to improve your upgrade chances is to hold elite status, book higher fare classes, avoid Basic Economy, and travel during low-demand times. Early check-in and flying non-hub routes also increase the likelihood of complimentary upgrades.

Do airline credit cards help with upgrades?
Airline credit cards can improve upgrade priority, especially when combined with elite status. While cards alone do not guarantee upgrades, they often act as a tiebreaker when multiple passengers have similar upgrade rankings. Yes. Co-branded airline credit cards can improve upgrade priority, especially when combined with elite status, but they do not guarantee upgrades.

Do Basic Economy tickets qualify for upgrades?
No. Basic Economy tickets on Delta, United, and American generally do not qualify for complimentary upgrades.

We hope this helps you get that upgrade and enjoy your flight with all the little perks!