Alaska Airlines is one of the largest operating airlines in the United States. Alaska offers extensive policies that resonate with its inclination toward customer satisfaction. The Alaska Airlines Seat Upgrade Policy is a prime example of the airline’s dedication to providing its customers with the best services. In this article, you will get detailed information on how to upgrade seats, types of seat upgrades, and many more.
Alaska Airlines Seat Upgrade Policy
Upgrading your seat with Alaska Airlines is a straightforward process, but it’s important to know the Alaska Airlines seat upgrade policy and rules to ensure a smooth experience. Here’s a quick guide to what you need to know:
- Immediate upgrades are available for certain fare types, depending on your Mileage Plan™ elite status.
- If your fare doesn’t qualify for an immediate upgrade, you’ll be placed on the waitlist, which is processed at different times for MVP, MVP Gold, and MVP Gold 75K/100K members.
- Saver fares do not qualify for elite upgrades at the time of booking but may be eligible for paid upgrades on the day of departure.
- Unlimited complimentary upgrades to Premium Class are available for Mileage Plan™ elite status members, subject to availability.
- MVP Gold and 75K/100K members can upgrade one companion traveling with them on the same reservation.
Types Of Upgrades On Alaska Airlines
If you are flying on Alaska Airlines and wish to upgrade seats on Alaska Airlines, you will be able to do so depending on the fare type you have purchased. Alaska offers extensive policies that easily allow you to make Alaska air seat upgrade. Here, we have listed down the types of upgrades you can opt for:
1) Complimentary Upgrades
Various Alaska Airlines members can enjoy complimentary upgrades provided they fulfill the requirements. Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan™ members enjoy the benefit of complimentary upgrades to First Class, subject to availability. To qualify, members must include their Mileage Plan number in the reservation and credit their flight miles to the program. Immediate upgrades are available for certain fares, while others may be placed on a waitlist, processed according to elite status and fare class. Upgrade windows open at different times for MVP, MVP Gold, and MVP Gold 75K/100K members.
2) Guest Upgrades
MVP® Gold members receive electronic upgrade codes to upgrade companions not traveling with them or for their own immediate upgrade on eligible fares. These codes are deposited into the member’s account profile upon qualifying for MVP® Gold status. Guest upgrades are valid on specific Alaska Airlines flight numbers and must be booked into the “U” class of service, which is subject to availability.
3) Premium Class Upgrades
Mileage Plan™ elite members can get an Alaska Airlines premium seat upgrade, which offers 4 inches of additional legroom, early boarding, and complimentary drinks. These upgrades are unlimited and complimentary, based on availability. Qualifying fares for immediate upgrades vary by elite level, and if no Premium Class seats are available, members are placed on a waitlist. Saver fares are not eligible for elite upgrades at booking but may be available for paid upgrades on the day of departure.
How do I Upgrade My Seat on Alaska Airlines?
There are several ways to upgrade your seats with Alaska Airlines if you follow the Alaska Airlines seat upgrade policy well enough. Here we have listed down the ways by which you can upgrade your seat with detailed steps to follow along.
1) Upgrading During Booking
When you’re planning your trip and want to ensure a more comfortable flight, upgrading your seat during the booking process is a convenient option. Here’s how you can elevate your travel experience with Alaska Airlines right from the start:
- Begin your booking process at Alaska Airlines’ official website.
- After entering your travel details, proceed to the flight selection page.
- Look for flights that have upgrade availability, indicated by a “U” next to the fare.
- Select the “Mileage” option from the “Upgrade fare type” filter to view fares eligible for an upgrade.
- Choose your preferred flight and fare that qualifies for an upgrade.
- Complete your booking and enjoy the anticipation of a more comfortable journey.
2) Upgrading After Booking
Already booked your flight but decided you’d like more space or luxury? Upgrading after booking is still possible. Follow these steps along with the Alaska Airlines seat upgrade policy to modify your seat selection:
- Visit the Alaska Airlines website and access your existing reservation.
- Use the ‘Manage reservation’ tool to view your booking details.
- Check the availability of Premium Class or First Class seats.
- If available, select the seat you wish to upgrade to and pay any applicable fees.
- Confirm your new seat assignment and get ready to fly with added comfort.
Fees for Upgrading Your Seats On Alaska Airlines
While many upgrades are complimentary for elite members, there are Alaska Airlines seat upgrade costs associated with certain upgrade scenarios. Paid upgrades start at $50 and can increase based on the distance. Taxes also apply to the upgrade fee. These upgrades can be requested at check-in or at the gate if you do not already qualify for a complimentary elite upgrade.
- First-class upgrades start at $23, and paid upgrades become available at online check-in within 24 hours of your flight.
- Premium-class upgrades start at $15 only.
Summary:
Alaska Airlines offers a variety of seat upgrade options to enhance your travel experience. With policies that cater to different fare types and elite statuses, passengers have the flexibility to choose how they want to travel. Fees for upgrades are reasonable and allow for last-minute decisions at the airport. Understanding these policies can help ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable journey with Alaska Airlines.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1) How much in advance can I book a Premium Class seat?
You are allowed to book a premium class on selected flights for up to 330 days before the travel date.
2) Can I upgrade to Premium Class seats ahead of time?
Yes, you can easily upgrade to a premium class seat ahead of time before scheduled departure. You can do this either at the time of booking or any time before your flight and during check-in on alaskaair.com, the mobile app, or using the kiosk.
3) Why can’t I upgrade to First class even if there are empty seats on the seat map?
Even if the seat map shows empty First-class seats, you might not be able to upgrade to it. Not all the First class seats are released for upgrades early, however, 60 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time, all the non-occupied seats will be released for upgrade. So you might get your upgrades at the gate.