Northwest Upgrades?

[thistle922]

Just out of curiosity, has anyone ever gotten one? How does that work?

We're flying Northwest next week to MCO, and my mom is flying in first class, and my DS4 and I are in coach (long story..LOL). She's alleging to me that first class isn't full (though when I checked my seat assignments the rest of the plane pretty much is) and is telling me I should ask if they can bump us up to first class. Is that something they even do? If it is, how do you go about it?

 

[drew64]

It doesn't work that way. The empty first class seats will be taken by elite staus members upgraded based on their status until they are full. They won't just upgrade someone who asks or everyone would.

 

[uva185]

Northwest will upgrade Platinum members 5 days out, Gold Members 3 days out, and Silver 1 day out. Sometimes First Class seats will be "held back" and upgrades will be processed at the gate.

If there are any extra seats available after all elite members have been upgraded they may offer an upgrade for sale for somewhere between $50 - $150. If is very very unlikely upgrades will be offered for sale however if you are flying on a Saturday (low business travel day) you chances of being able to buy an upgrade are better.