Alaska Airlines First Class Upgrade

Alaska Airlines offers several accessible ways to make that dream a reality. Whether you’re a seasoned Mileage Plan elite member or an occasional traveler hoping for a taste of luxury, upgrading to First Class on Alaska Airlines can dramatically elevate your flight experience. From spacious seats to complimentary meals and drinks, First Class travel is worth considering—especially if you know how to secure an upgrade smartly and affordably.

Benefits to Upgrade to First Class on Alaska Airlines?

Alaska Airlines offers a premium First Class product that includes:

• Larger, more comfortable seats with up to 41 inches of pitch and 21 inches of width
• Priority boarding and check-in
• Two free checked bags
• Complimentary food and beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails
• Dedicated overhead bin space
• Free access to in-flight entertainment via streaming

If you’re flying longer routes—especially cross-country or to Hawaii—these upgrades can greatly improve your comfort and overall travel experience.

Who Is Eligible for an Upgrade?

Alaska Airlines offers multiple paths to First Class upgrades:

1. Paid Upgrades

After booking your main cabin ticket, Alaska often offers paid upgrade options if First Class seats are still available. These can be purchased:

• During booking
• At check-in (online or at the kiosk)
• At the gate

Prices vary depending on route, availability, and demand but can sometimes be surprisingly affordable—especially close to departure.

2. Mileage Plan Elite Upgrades

Elite members of Alaska’s Mileage Plan loyalty program are eligible for complimentary upgrades based on their status level:

• MVP: Upgrades on Y, S, and B fares.
• MVP Gold: Upgrades on Y, S, B, M, and H fares.
• MVP Gold 75K & 100K: Complimentary upgrades on a wider range of fare classes, plus higher upgrade priority.

Complimentary upgrades for elites are processed in tiers, usually starting 120 hours before departure.

3. Using Miles to Upgrade

You can use Alaska Mileage Plan miles to upgrade from economy to First Class on qualifying fare classes. Generally, the cost is:

• 15,000 miles one-way on most routes within North America

Mileage upgrades must be requested in advance and are only available on certain fare types (usually not the lowest fare classes).

4. Companion Fare Upgrades

Alaska’s famous companion fare (from the Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card) can be upgraded if both tickets are in eligible fare classes and the primary traveler is an elite member.

How to Maximize Your Chances of an Upgrade?

While complimentary upgrades aren’t guaranteed, there are several ways to boost your odds:

1. Earn Elite Status

Elite status is your best bet for consistent upgrades. With benefits kicking in at MVP level (achieved after 20,000 miles/year), it’s a worthy goal if you fly Alaska regularly.

2. Book the Right Fare Class

Not all fare classes are upgrade-eligible. Avoid the lowest fare classes (Saver) if you’re hoping for an upgrade. Instead, aim for Y, S, B, M, or H classes, which are more upgrade-friendly.

3. Check for Paid Upgrades at Check-In

Even if you’re not elite, Alaska often offers last-minute First Class upgrades at a discount when you check in. Keep an eye out for these offers in your reservation summary or app.

4. Fly During Off-Peak Times

Flights during mid-week or at less popular times of day may have more available First Class seats, improving your chances of a complimentary or paid upgrade.

5. Use the Alaska Mobile App

Elite members can monitor upgrade waitlists in real-time via the Alaska Airlines mobile app. This tool gives you visibility into your upgrade position and likelihood.

Alaska Air Upgrade with Miles

• Miles First Class Upgrades. All passengers can purchase a First Class upgrade with miles when purchasing their ticket or on an existing reservation, subject to availability.
• Miles Premium Class Upgrades. All passengers can purchase a Premium Class upgrade when they purchase their ticket or on an existing booking, subject to the availability of seats.

What can be Expected from an Upgrade?

Getting upgraded to Alaska Airlines First Class is about more than just a better seat. Here’s what comes with your new premium experience:

• Boarding and Check-In: Priority security access and boarding mean less time waiting and more time relaxing.
  
• Lounge Access: While First Class does not automatically come with lounge access, MVP Gold 75K and 100K members do receive some complimentary day passes.
  
• In-Flight Dining: Enjoy full meals on flights over 670 miles, with options curated by West Coast chefs. Shorter flights feature snacks and drinks.
  
• Baggage: First Class passengers can check two bags for free, saving money and hassle.
  
• Service: First Class comes with a higher level of personalized service from Alaska’s attentive flight attendants.
  

Is It Worth It?

For many travelers, the Alaska Airlines First Class experience is worth the upgrade—especially on longer flights or if a reasonable paid upgrade becomes available. With a few strategic moves, such as earning elite status or checking in early to snag discounted upgrades, flying First Class doesn’t have to break the bank.

Whether you’re traveling for business or treating yourself to a more luxurious journey, Alaska Airlines offers a solid First Class product and a range of upgrade paths that make it more accessible than you might expect. So next time you’re booking a flight, take a moment to explore your upgrade options—you might find yourself flying up front.

Some Frequently Asked Questions