Since you are traveling on busy days and route for business travelers, I would suggest calling AirTran about five minutes prior to 24 hours before scheduled departure time, to get the best shot at upgrading. They should not charge you the phone fee to process the upgrade on the phone. Have your credit card and confirmation number available, when you call.

The only benefit you do not receive for the upgrade is the 1/2 bonus credit. You have access to the priority security lane, two free checked bags, free premium beverages, priority boarding, etc.; the only perk that would be available in First Class that's not provided in FL's BC is meal service.

Since the upgrades are popular with business travelers, make sure you do the upgrade promptly, while upgrade space is available.

If you want to check on BC space for your flights, a reliable source is http://www.flightstats.com/go/Flight...vailability.do, where you can view realtime availability.