Low-cost carrier AirTran is now allowing all coach-class passengers (not just mileage-program members), to upgrade to Business Class on any published fare. The one-way upgrade fee is $49 on short-range flights (e.g., Atlanta-Washington, DC), with the lowest economy fares at $114; upgrades on midrange flights are $69 one-way (e.g., Atlanta-New York), with fares starting at $154; long-range flight upgrades are $99 one-way (e.g., Atlanta-San Francisco), with fares starting at $184. Taxes and fees apply to all fares shown.
What does AirTran’s Business Class seat offer? 22 inches of width (compared to 18 inches in economy), a 37-inch pitch (vs. economy’s 31), and a 2x2 seat configuration. Other perks include priority boarding and complimentary cocktails with premium snacks. Upgrades are available 24 hours prior to departure, or once the airplane reaches cruising altitude.
The new policy offers little benefit to elite members of AirTran’s, A+ Rewards. While they receive complimentary Business Class upgrades at the gate 40 minutes prior to departure (if available), or with Y and B fares at time of booking, they’ll be facing fewer available seats and longer lines to get them.
Elite members continue to be exempt from baggage fees, including the new $15 first-bag fee announced Nov. 12.