Originally Posted by HeathrowGuy
I would never condone the practice myself, but methinks that you would have more luck with ticket counter/gate agents vs. FAs.
IF they have empty first class or business class seats, would they have the authority to 'give' you a free upgrade? or perhaps sell them to you for just a few more dollars?
I mean do you just come right out and ask the ticket agent when you check in? Also, the gate agent is the guy by the boarding area right? Does he have the same authority?