Originally Posted by
brodyjm5
...For example, I am silver medallion on Delta. So 24 hours before my flight, i check-in, and if there is a first class seat available, then i am upgraded? always? ...
"Always?" No way. The F cabin has a finite size. You have your priority in the airline's pecking order. You will only get an upgrade if all those ahead of you, including anyone who buys an F ticket, didn't fill it before your turn came around.
Originally Posted by
ArizonaGuy
...AA and UA require some form of purchase, miles or instrument (500-milers, SWU's) for an upgrade. Though it happens, it's generally not assumed that an elite traveler with receive an upgrade on these airlines without these or some other reason...
Not exactly correct. On AA, top-tier (Executive Platinum) travelers get free upgrades. Others have to give something in return, perhaps not money.
Also on AA, and I believe on other airlines, there are a variety of ways to upgrade. For example, one can use miles (perhaps with a co-pay, depending on fare class), SWUs (sometimes called eVIPs in AA-speak), or 500-mile upgrade credits (aka "stickers," not needed by EXPs) and perhaps others. These, too, have their priority order. Details are in each airline's forum.
Originally Posted by
jackal
Welcome to FT!
As you can see, it varies considerably between airlines ... Since it's so vastly different between carriers, I'd reiterate the suggestion to look in the individual forums of each airline and ask clarifying questions there.
...
Also, a hint: if you edit your profile to add your current location, fellow FTers can help you choose a program better...
Both excellent suggestions, +1.