How Savvy Elite-Status and Schedule-Focused Travelers Fly Business Class on United

Last month FCF had a look at how American Elite-Status and Schedule-Focused Travelers Fly Business Class. This month, we take a close look at United’s mileage upgrades from economy, as they are frequently the best way to get Business Class when:

1. Fares are high
2. You do not have a lot of miles
3. You don’t have much flexibility
4. You need to earn elite qualifying credit
5. Someone else is paying for your ticket

As with most mileage programs, most people think that a free award ticket is the best way to use miles because there is no co-pay. But it’s often the wrong move, especially if you fall into one of the five categories above. Follow the lead of most airlines’ highest-paying customers, who use upgrades to maintain elite status.