Traveling in Economy with Alaska Airlines This Summer? You May Receive a Complimentary Upgrade

This summer travel season in the United States is already looking bustling. On the Friday before Memorial Day, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reported screening 2.95 million airline passengers, marking the highest daily total ever recorded. Additionally, Airlines for America, a trade association for major U.S. airlines, projects a 6.3 percent increase in travelers this summer compared to last year. While airports will undoubtedly be more packed, one airline is aiming to enhance the in-flight experience for a few fortunate passengers.

Alaska Airlines has unveiled a summer initiative called “upgrade unlocked,” where at least one passenger booked in the Main Cabin on their flights will receive a surprise upgrade to Premium Class daily from June 1 to September 2, 2024.

Eric Edge, the managing director of marketing and advertising at Alaska Airlines, stated that this initiative is “one way we’re demonstrating our gratitude to guests for choosing to fly with us to their favorite summer destinations.”

Winning passengers (and their travel companions—up to one additional guest can also receive an upgrade) will be informed via the Alaska Airlines mobile app or through email that they have been randomly chosen for an upgrade.

The Premium Class seats on Alaska Airlines are situated directly behind first class. They can usually be purchased (starting at around $15 per leg, according to Alaska) or awarded to travelers with elite status on Alaska Airlines or a oneworld Alliance partner like American Airlines or British Airways. Compared to Main Cabin seats, Premium Class seats provide an extra four inches of legroom (approximately 36 inches total) and include complimentary beverages such as beer, wine, or spirits for eligible passengers on most flights that are 350 miles or longer. Premium guests also enjoy priority boarding and deplaning, along with earlier access to overhead bin space.

It’s important to note that while the promotion specifically mentions Main Cabin travelers, it also applies to those who have purchased Alaska’s Saver Fare.

Currently, Alaska Airlines services destinations across the United States, Canada, Belize, the Bahamas, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico. The airline has recently enhanced its offerings in Southern California with new year-round routes from San Diego to Las Vegas and from Los Angeles to Reno and Pasco, Washington. Additionally, Alaska is increasing flight frequencies between Los Angeles and some of its most sought-after destinations, including Seattle, Portland, and Boise.

If you’re not among the fortunate few to receive a complimentary upgrade, another recent announcement from Alaska Airlines might soften the blow: On May 22, the airline revealed the return of hot meals in the Main Cabin. New menu options include dishes like a chicken curry wrap and pretzel-roll sliders, available on flights over 1,100 miles; these meals must be preordered up to 20 hours prior to departure (and if you ask us, we suggest choosing the Signature Fruit & Cheese Platter).