How to Request a Seat Upgrade
Overview
Upgrading to a higher cabin or a premium seat can transform your journey. We offer several ways to upgrade depending on your fare class, loyalty status, and the availability of premium inventory at the time of your flight. This guide explains the upgrade channels available, what each type costs, how upgrade priority is determined at the gate, and how to maximise your chance of success.
Upgrade Channels
You can request a seat upgrade through any of the following channels:
- At booking -Select premium economy, business, or first class directly when purchasing your ticket.
- Before travel -Log in to manage your booking on the website or mobile app. Eligible upgrade offers appear on the booking summary page.
- Check-in -During online or airport check-in from 24 hours before departure, last-minute paid upgrades are often offered at a reduced rate.
- At the gate -Speak with the gate agent about any remaining premium seats. Priority is given by loyalty tier and fare class.
- Contact centre -Call our loyalty line during 24/7 operations to redeem points for an upgrade on an existing booking.
Upgrade Types
- Cash upgrade -Pay the fare difference between your current cabin and the higher cabin. The price is typically lower than a new ticket purchase.
- Points upgrade -Redeem loyalty program points to move up a cabin. Availability is released at varying intervals before departure and is not guaranteed.
- Bid upgrade -On eligible fares, you can submit an offer for a higher cabin. If your bid is accepted, you will be notified up to 72 hours before departure and charged the offered amount.
- Loyalty benefit upgrade -Premium status members may receive complimentary upgrades based on availability and tier.
- Seat-only upgrade -Within the same cabin, you can pay or use points to move to an exit row, bassinet row, or preferred seat for more legroom and convenience.
Upgrade Priority
When multiple passengers are eligible for the same upgrade, priority is determined by the following factors in order:
- Loyalty program tier (higher tiers are processed first).
- Fare class booked (flexible fares rank above discounted fares).
- Time of upgrade request or waitlist entry.
- Whether the passenger is a loyalty program member versus a guest traveller.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will I know if my upgrade request is successful?
Confirmed cash upgrades apply immediately. Points and bid upgrades are typically confirmed between 72 hours and 6 hours before departure. Standby upgrades are processed at the gate once boarding starts.
Q: Is the upgrade refundable if my flight is cancelled?
Yes. If we cancel your flight or significantly change the schedule, any upgrade you paid is fully refunded, and points are returned to your loyalty account.
Q: Can I upgrade just the return leg?
Yes. Each leg can be upgraded independently, subject to availability in the target cabin.
Q: Does an upgrade include baggage and lounge access?
Upgrading to a higher cabin typically includes the baggage allowance and lounge access of that cabin. Seat-only upgrades within the same cabin do not change your baggage or lounge entitlement.
Important Information
Your rights as a passenger are protected under DGCA Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) and enforced by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Program terms for upgrades issued by Air India and our partners follow the published tariff.
Need Help?
Our support team is available during 24/7 operations. For in-person assistance or last-minute upgrade offers, visit the service desk at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL).