Can you still get upgraded if you check in online?

Checking In Online and the Elusive Upgrade: Is All Hope Lost?

In our digital age, the convenience of online check-in is undeniable. We bypass queues, choose our seats, and breeze through airports feeling smugly efficient. But does this digital efficiency come at a cost? Namely, does checking in online obliterate any chance of a coveted upgrade?

The short answer? Not necessarily.

While online check-in doesn’t guarantee an upgrade, it’s not the death knell it’s sometimes made out to be. My personal experience, seasoned with its fair share of airport adventures, suggests that upgrades are still possible, even with a digital boarding pass nestled in your phone.

However, the signs may be subtle. Don’t expect a fanfare and a red carpet rolled out to whisk you to first class. Instead, keep an eye out for these telltale signs:

• A Seat Change Symphony: If you initially selected a middle seat in economy and find yourself mysteriously reassigned to a window or aisle seat, closer to the front, consider it a promising sign. The upgrade fairy might be working behind the scenes.
• The “Check-In Counter Whisper”: While it might seem counterintuitive after checking in online, approaching the check-in counter with a smile and inquiring about any potential upgrades can work wonders. Airlines often leave some upgrade decisions until the last minute, and a friendly face might just tip the scales in your favor.

It’s important to remember that upgrades are never a given, online check-in or not. Factors like loyalty program status, fare class, and even just plain luck play a role.

So, the next time you’re checking in for your flight, don’t despair if you’ve opted for the digital route. The upgrade dream might still be alive, albeit with a slightly lower profile. Keep your eyes peeled, your smile genuine, and who knows, you might just find yourself sipping champagne in business class after all.