I actually upgraded on Etihad using a mix of miles and cash earlier this year. I saw the bidding option online but wasn’t confident I was doing it right, so I just called their team at 877-764-3622. The rep checked availability, explained the differences between using miles, paying the set upgrade fee, or bidding, and helped me choose the best value. Since I had enough miles, I only had to pay a small cash portion, and they confirmed the upgrade immediately while I was still on the phone. I got the updated e-ticket in my email within minutes, and the flight experience in business class was absolutely worth it. I’ve also used that same number once to cancel a ticket, and it was just as straightforward. If you want to upgrade without guesswork, calling is definitely the quickest way.
