Originally Posted by
deltheking
Hi - have a a query regarding business class upgrade offers. So sometimes Emirates offers a business upgrade offer for a reasonable amount for an economy fare closer to your flight date. Agree no guarantee whatsoever - but can you increase your chances of getting the offer if you fly from a certain city as I would be flexible from flying anywhere in the US ?
Also is there a way to check the load factor for business class for flights ? That way if the business classis less fill6up or if economy is sold out - then there would be a higher chance of getting the upgrade offer.
Any advice or thoughts on this? Thanks
Expertflyer used to be a method of getting an idea of flight loads but it was still fairly limited and at times could provide misleading information. For example EF could be showing Y as wide open when in fact it was fully booked but because J and F was quiet, different Y fares would still be sold. Either way, EF is currently out of action anyway.
You could do dummy bookings and look for flights that are showing miles upgrades available to get an idea of where EK believe J will be low. It really is pot luck though. Even in terms of which type of economy ticket you purchase doesn't increase your chances and also makes is less economically viable the higher the economy fare you purchase.
As a Plat I don't think I have ever received an email upgrade and I am not sure if I ever received one as Gold so factor in your status as well.
It is much easier to find a flight that is allowing miles upgrades as opposed to searching for a flight where you may get an email offer. I use the term 'offer' loosely as well as there is a lot you do not get with it.