A Good Deed

My husband and I are traveling from Seattle to Accra, Ghana this week on reduced economy seats from British Airways. We are making this trip to visit African missionaries in an official capacity for our church (obviously, a non-profit institution.)

What steps should we take to best increase our chances of receiving an upgrade?

First off, I would like to applaud you for your missionary work in Africa.

It is increasingly difficult to get upgrades when holding highly discounted fares. In an effort to stem their vast losses, airlines are limiting most upgrades to higher fare passengers. In many cases, this could only mean an extra hundred dollars. However, on international routes it can be significantly higher.

I recommend that you check with the gate agent upon your arrival to the airport and explain your special circumstances. Many agents have sympathy for passengers who are on altruistic causes.

If seats are available you should have a good chance for an upgrade.

All the best with your fine work.

Joel