Can you upgrade to Economy Plus after booking?

Snagging That Extra Legroom: Economy Plus Upgrades After You Book

You’ve booked your flight, snagged a decent fare, and are ready for your trip. But then it hits you: the thought of cramming yourself into a standard economy seat for hours fills you with dread. You wish you’d sprung for Economy Plus. But is it too late?

The good news is, even if you’ve already booked your ticket, and especially if it’s a non-refundable fare, upgrading to Economy Plus is often still a possibility. Don’t let the “non-refundable” label deter you from exploring your options for a more comfortable journey.

While non-refundable tickets typically lock you into your original travel dates and prevent changes without incurring potentially hefty fees, they don’t necessarily restrict your ability to improve your in-flight experience. Securing an upgrade to Economy Plus, with its extra legroom and sometimes other perks, is often treated as a separate add-on.

Here’s what you need to know about potentially upgrading after booking:

• Check with the Airline Directly: The best place to start is the airline’s website or app. Look for options to manage your booking or modify your seat selection. You might find the option to upgrade directly. Alternatively, you can contact their customer service via phone or live chat.

• Be Aware of Upgrade Costs: The price of an Economy Plus upgrade varies depending on the airline, the length of the flight, and availability. Be prepared to pay a fee that can range from a relatively small amount to a more significant sum.

• Consider Elite Status: If you’re a frequent flyer with elite status in the airline’s loyalty program, you may be eligible for complimentary upgrades to Economy Plus. Check your program benefits to see if this is an option for you. Sometimes these upgrades are automatically applied closer to the travel date, or you might need to request them.

• Wait Until Check-In: Sometimes, if seats are still available in Economy Plus closer to departure, the airline might offer upgrades at a discounted rate during online check-in or even at the airport.

• Flexibility Without Changing Plans: The beauty of securing an Economy Plus upgrade is that it enhances your comfort without altering your core travel arrangements. You maintain your original flight dates and destination, while simply improving your seating experience.

So, before you resign yourself to cramped conditions, take a few moments to explore your upgrade options. With a little effort, you might just find yourself enjoying a more spacious and relaxed flight, even with that non-refundable ticket tucked away in your wallet.