I’ve booked a domestic flight with US Airways. A week before I’m due to travel the airline has offered me First Class for an extra $159 — but it seems to be a “standby” option at their discretion. Is it a reasonable deal? I paid about the same for the original flight in economy. — Jonathan North, SW18
I’m guessing you’ve booked something like a New York-Miami flight, which is typically on offer for $120-$200. US Airways, like other “legacy” airlines, has gradually removed economy-class frills, so anyone in the cheap seats now has to pay for everything.
But it still has a first class, roughly comparable to British Airways’ Club Europe. You can expect priority check-in and boarding, a bit more legroom and catering.
However, I understand that the way the airline sells upgrades is a bit tricky. You click to say you’d like one, and two days before departure US Airways decides whether or not it is likely to sell out in First. If it thinks seats will be available, then it will automatically charge your credit card for the agreed amount — almost £100, in your case. But they can also politely decline. Personally, I wouldn’t bother granting an option to extract a premium on a reasonably short flight. You could just turn up at the airport, and ask if upgrades are available; sometimes the airline sells them at check-in for as little as $100.
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