When it comes to upgrades, the airlines are caught in what is viewed by many to be a real Catch-22. Like any business, the airlines have an obligation to maximize revenue and make money for the company. Part of this revenue is generated from the outright sale of tickets in their Premium cabins – First Class and Business Class. However, they also have an obligation to their best customers, namely the frequent flyer and more specifically the Elite flyer. Maintaining, and even growing, the base of frequent flyers of an airline depends almost entirely on the “value” of their frequent flyer programs, especially for Elite members. The value of most programs is often judged by the number of seats an airline allocates for either free or mileage upgrades in the very same Premium cabins they are obligated to sell. Hence the Catch-22. read more »

You’ve managed to secure the cheapest airline ticket or the best value ticket based on your travel itinerary. Or, maybe you’ve managed to snare that elusive upgrade or free award ticket in First Class. That’s terrific, but you’re only halfway there to a great experience. So, where are you going to sit? On the wing?

Traveling from one city to another can vary greatly based on the airline and the equipment (type of plane). Different airlines will fly different aircraft types and each will have its own seating configuration and amenities. This can drastically alter your flying experience. Even with the same airline, two or three different aircraft types may be used and each with varying quality of seats and seat arrangements. read more »