1. Use SkyMiles to Upgrade
One of the best ways to upgrade to First Class on a last-minute flight is by using SkyMiles — Delta’s frequent flyer program. SkyMiles can be redeemed for award upgrades to First Class, although availability is not always guaranteed, especially during peak travel periods.
Steps to Use SkyMiles for Upgrades:
- Check Upgrade Availability: You can use your SkyMiles to request an upgrade during the booking process. Delta will display the number of miles needed for an upgrade once you select your flight and the cabin.
- Request Upgrade During Booking: If you're booking last-minute, make sure to check the “Upgrade with Miles” option on the Delta booking page. If First Class upgrades are available, the miles required will be listed.
- Use the Delta App or Website: After you’ve booked your flight, you can also use the Delta app or website to request an upgrade using SkyMiles. Simply go to the "Manage My Booking" section and look for available upgrade options.
Tips:
- Availability Depends on the Flight: SkyMiles upgrades are subject to seat availability in First Class. If seats are full or the flight is highly booked, upgrades may not be possible, even with miles.
- Upgrades Are Not Guaranteed: Especially for last-minute bookings, upgrades are not guaranteed. If a First Class seat is not available for an upgrade, you may need to waitlist for a spot.
- Mileage Requirements: The number of miles needed for an upgrade depends on the route and class of service you're booked in. Short-haul flights may require fewer miles compared to long-haul international flights.
2. Use a Medallion Status for Complimentary Upgrades
If you’re a Medallion Member in Delta’s SkyMiles program, you have priority for complimentary upgrades to First Class, even for last-minute bookings. Medallion status members are the first to be considered for upgrades, which gives you an edge when looking to move up to a premium cabin.
Steps to Use Medallion Status for Upgrades:
- Check Eligibility: If you hold Medallion Status (Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond), you are eligible for complimentary upgrades to First Class, subject to availability.
- Automatic Upgrade: If you’re a Medallion member, Delta will automatically request an upgrade for you based on your status and the availability of First Class seats. The higher your status (Diamond or Platinum), the better your chances of getting upgraded.
- Priority Upgrade: Complimentary upgrades are processed in order of Medallion status. Diamond and Platinum members get priority over Silver members, and Medallion members are prioritized over non-members.
Tips:
- Booking Early Increases Your Chances: While complimentary upgrades are possible last-minute, booking earlier in the process will give you a better chance of being upgraded.
- Upgrade Window: Medallion members are typically upgraded starting 72 hours before the flight. For last-minute upgrades, check your eligibility to see if you can be upgraded right before departure.
3. Bid for an Upgrade Using Delta's "Bid for Upgrade" Program
Delta offers a Bid for Upgrade program, which allows you to place a bid to upgrade to First Class from Economy or Comfort+. This is a great option for last-minute travelers, as you can potentially snag an upgrade even if the flight is close to departure.
Steps to Use the "Bid for Upgrade" Program:
- Eligible Flights: The Bid for Upgrade program is available for select flights that are operating with available premium cabin space.
- Place Your Bid: If eligible, you’ll receive an email or notification from Delta, inviting you to place a bid for a First Class seat. You can select the amount you’re willing to pay for the upgrade.
- Wait for Notification: After you place your bid, Delta will notify you whether your bid is successful. If no one else bids higher or if your offer is accepted, you’ll be upgraded to First Class.
Tips:
- Bidding Doesn’t Guarantee an Upgrade: While the program allows for last-minute upgrades, bids are subject to available space and other competing offers. The higher your bid, the more likely you are to secure an upgrade, but there’s no guarantee.
- Place a Competitive Bid: For last-minute upgrades, it’s often a good idea to place a competitive bid, especially as the flight date gets closer and First Class seats may be in higher demand.
4. Upgrade at the Airport
If you're booking a last-minute flight, one of your best chances for a First Class upgrade may be at the airport. Delta website sometimes offers last-minute upgrades at check-in or at the gate, particularly if there are unsold First Class seats.
Steps to Upgrade at the Airport:
- Check-In Early: Arriving early at the airport increases your chances of securing an upgrade. Once you check in, ask the agent about upgrade availability.
- Inquire About Upgrade Pricing: If there are empty First Class seats, Delta may offer them to you at a discounted price or for miles.
- Ask at the Gate: If you didn’t receive an upgrade at check-in, you can still inquire about availability at the gate. Gate agents have the final say on last-minute upgrades and may offer available First Class seats for a lower price or in exchange for SkyMiles.
Tips:
- Be Polite and Flexible: Be courteous when asking about upgrades. The availability of last-minute upgrades can vary, and your chances improve when you’re flexible and understanding.
- Upgrade Offers Vary: Delta sometimes offers last-minute upgrade offers via email or through the Delta mobile app. Keep an eye out for these offers, which might be offered at a discount closer to departure time.
5. Use a Delta SkyMiles Credit Card for an Upgrade
If you have a Delta SkyMiles credit card from American Express, you may be eligible for additional perks that can help with last-minute upgrades. For example, some cards offer companion certificates, or you may have access to Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) to boost your status.
Tips:
- Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs): If you’re close to achieving a higher Medallion status, using your Delta SkyMiles credit card to accrue MQMs might boost your chances of a complimentary upgrade.
- Companion Certificates: If you have a Delta credit card with companion certificates, you can use those to book a First Class ticket for a companion, freeing up a seat for yourself.
6. Book Early, If Possible
Though you're looking for last-minute options, booking as early as possible can increase your chances of a First Class upgrade. As Delta operates on a dynamic pricing model, the earlier you book, the more likely it is that First Class seats are available at lower miles or price offers.
Tips:
- Monitor Seat Availability: Check regularly for available upgrades as your departure time nears. If you're booking late, check if any First Class seats open up after others cancel or change their plans.
Conclusion
Upgrading to First Class on a last-minute Delta flight is possible, but not always guaranteed. Using SkyMiles, leveraging Medallion Status, placing a bid for an upgrade, or requesting an upgrade at the airport are all potential strategies for securing an upgrade to First Class. The key to success is flexibility and taking advantage of any last-minute offers, whether through Delta’s mobile app, customer service, or at the airport Flights from Atlanta To Southern Illinois.
While last-minute upgrades to premium cabins can be a gamble, knowing your options and acting quickly can improve your chances of enjoying a First Class experience, even on short notice.