Pay the fare difference between cabins. Only infrequently are there e-mail offers or check in specials for discounted upgrades. These offers do not qualify for higher tier miles earnings.

Redeem miles for an upgrade. This is possible on any fare, however Saver fares require more miles than Flex fares (check on Skywards.com). Only one class upgrades are possible. Miles may be used from any Skywards account. Must be completed 6 hours before departure, though Silver and Gold members can also use miles at check in, lounge or onboard.

Receive an operational upgrade (opup). These are given when a flight is oversold, ie there are more passengers with a confirmed seat than there are seats on an aircraft. These are given out in order of status - VIP, Gold, Silver, Blue, non-Skywards. Processed at check-in and sometimes at the gate or onboard.