How much does it cost to upgrade from premium economy to business BA?

The Price of Comfort: Upgrading from BA Premium Economy to Business Class

Flying British Airways? Already booked Premium Economy but dreaming of the extra legroom, gourmet meals, and superior service of Business Class? Upgrading is possible, but the cost varies considerably depending on factors like route, demand, and the time remaining until your departure.

British Airways primarily offers upgrades from Premium Economy to Business Class using Avios points, their frequent flyer program currency. This makes the “price” a little less straightforward than a simple monetary figure. The number of Avios needed fluctuates significantly depending on the specific flight. A short-haul European hop will require far fewer Avios than a long-haul journey to, say, Australia.

How to Find Out the Cost (in Avios):

The most reliable way to determine the Avios cost for your specific upgrade is to check directly through the Manage My Booking section on the British Airways website. Once logged in, locate your booking, and look for the upgrade options available for your Premium Economy ticket. The system will clearly display the Avios requirement for your chosen flight.

Beyond Avios: Other Considerations

While Avios are the primary method, it’s worth noting that other upgrade options may exist. These are less common and often dependent on factors like seat availability and the time leading up to departure. British Airways occasionally offers cash upgrades, particularly closer to the flight date, but these tend to be significantly more expensive than using Avios. It’s advisable to check your Manage My Booking section regularly, as these opportunities can appear sporadically.

Planning Ahead is Key:

The earlier you check for upgrade availability, the better your chances of securing an upgrade, particularly if using Avios. Demand for Business Class is naturally higher, and the number of Avios required tends to increase closer to the flight departure. Regularly checking your booking provides the best opportunity to snag a cost-effective upgrade when the price is most favorable.

In Conclusion:

There isn’t a fixed price for upgrading from British Airways Premium Economy to Business Class. The cost, expressed in Avios, is highly variable and depends on various factors. Regularly checking your booking online via Manage My Booking remains the most efficient way to determine the current Avios requirement for your specific flight and seize the best opportunity for upgrading your travel experience. Remember to factor in the cost (or time invested) of accumulating the necessary Avios if you haven’t already.