Flying with Alaska Airlines already offers a comfortable travel experience, but upgrading your seat can take your trip to the next level—whether you’re looking for extra legroom, priority services, or the premium perks of First Class. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Alaska Airlines seat upgrades, including upgrade types, how to get them, eligibility rules, pricing expectations, and pro tips to maximize your chances.
Why Consider an Alaska Airlines Seat Upgrade?
Upgrading with Alaska is popular because the airline offers competitive pricing and a variety of upgrade options. Travelers Alaska Airlines seat upgrade to enjoy:
- More legroom and wider seats
- Premium snacks and beverages
- Early boarding and faster security access (with certain fare classes or elite tiers)
- Priority baggage
- A more relaxed, spacious cabin experience
Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, the benefits often outweigh the cost.
Types of Alaska Airlines Seat Upgrades
1. Premium Class Upgrade
Premium Class offers:
- Up to 4 extra inches of legroom
- Early boarding
- Complimentary alcoholic beverages
Guests can upgrade during booking, after booking, or at check-in depending on seat availability.
2. First Class Upgrade
The most luxurious option, First Class includes:
- Spacious recliner seats
- Free meals and snacks
- Unlimited complimentary drinks
- Priority check-in and baggage
- Early boarding
First Class upgrades are available with:
- Cash
- Mileage Plan miles
- Elite status guest upgrades
- Complimentary elite upgrades (when eligible)
How to Upgrade Your Alaska Airlines Seat
1. During Booking
When selecting your flight, Alaska displays available upgrade options. You can choose Premium Class or First Class while purchasing your ticket.
2. After Booking (Via Manage Reservation)
Log into your Alaska Airlines account or visit “Manage Trip.” If upgrade seats open up, you’ll see the option to pay or redeem miles.
3. At Check-In
If seats remain:
- Pay for an upgrade
- Use miles
- Apply eligible elite upgrades
Check-in opens 24 hours before departure, and this is when last-minute upgrade deals often appear.
4. Airport Upgrade
Ask an agent at the ticket counter or gate. This works best for off-peak travel or flights with low loads.
Using Miles for Seat Upgrades
Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan miles can be used to upgrade eligible fare classes. Generally:
- Discount fares (Saver) cannot be upgraded
- Main and above fare classes may be eligible
- Upgrade mileage amounts vary depending on route and class of service
If your fare is upgrade-eligible, you’ll see an option to redeem miles in your booking.
Elite Status Upgrade Benefits
If you’re a Mileage Plan elite member, you enjoy priority upgrade windows:
MVP
- Premium Class: 48 hours before departure
- First Class: 48 hours (space-available)
MVP Gold
- Premium Class: 72 hours before
- First Class: 72 hours
MVP Gold 75K / 100K
- Premium Class: 120 hours before
- First Class: 120 hours
- Complimentary companion upgrades
- Additional “Guest Upgrade” certificates
If you fly Alaska often, achieving elite status is the most cost-effective way to enjoy regular upgrades.
How Much Do Alaska Airlines Upgrades Cost?
Pricing varies by:
- Route distance
- Time of purchase
- Seat availability
- Demand during travel season
Typical price ranges:
- Premium Class: $15–$149
- First Class: $50–$350+
Mileage redemptions depend on the fare class and route.
Tip: Prices are often lowest at check-in or close to departure.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of an Upgrade
✔ Fly during off-peak times (Tue–Wed flights often have more availability)
✔ Avoid Saver fares – almost never upgradeable
✔ Get Mileage Plan Elite status if you travel frequently
✔ Check for upgrades daily in “Manage Trip” leading up to your flight
✔ Arrive early at the airport – some seats open last minute
✔ Use Guest Upgrade certificates (if available)
✔ Be flexible with flight times for better upgrade inventory
Is an Alaska Airlines Upgrade Worth It?
For most travelers—yes. Premium Class offers excellent value for price, especially for longer flights. First Class upgrades are especially worthwhile on transcontinental or West Coast–Hawaii routes, where the premium cabin experience is significantly elevated.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading on Alaska Airlines is easier and often more affordable than on many U.S. carriers. Whether you’re aiming for extra legroom or a full First Class experience, knowing how to navigate Alaska’s upgrade system can save money and improve your travel comfort.
