I actually lucked into a free upgrade with Etihad once, but it wasn’t something I could plan. My original flight was overbooked in economy, and at check-in they bumped a few of us up to business class. Honestly, it felt like winning the lottery. Most of the time, though, upgrades aren’t free—you usually need to use miles, bid, or pay a fee. When I wanted to explore paid options on another trip, I called their team at 877-764-3622. The rep explained the difference between bidding, using miles, or paying outright, and helped me figure out what worked best for my booking. I’ve also used that same number once to cancel a ticket, and both times it was quick and painless. Free upgrades are rare, but if you’re serious about moving up a cabin, calling is the fastest way to see your real options.
