Fly First Class to Asia – Once a Dream, Now a Reality

Have you and your family been thinking about spending the summer in Thailand or Japan? Or have you been considering a business venture with your partners in Hong Kong or Singapore? With the current economic downturn experienced by most countries and the rise in airfares, you may want to settle for an inexpensive flight to get to your destination. However, flying coach means cramped seating, less legroom, and fewer amenities. These factors do not matter much if you are flying for just an hour or two. But for longer flights to Asian countries, flying business or first class makes a lot of difference. If you are going on a vacation, your trip starts when you board the plane. So why not make it as comfortable as you can?

Fortunately, there are more ways to enjoy the amenities and privileges of flying first class to Asia without spending more than you would on an economy fare. A lot of people are not aware of this, but getting an upgrade on your tickets is easier than it seems. Here are a few ways to get that first-class treatment on your next trip to Asia.

1. Increase your mileage

To fly first class to Asia, use your frequent flyer miles to upgrade your economy class ticket. Sometimes, these upgrades are more available than seats on other flights. Given the current decrease in capacity and fewer flights, fewer economy seats are available while first- and business-class seats are bountiful. Make use of Web sites that offer the best deals on prices, seats, and routes. Also, make use of credit cards that give you free mileage for your purchases, as they usually offer more mileage points on promotions and cross-provider offers.

2. Go promo hunting

Sign up for the email newsletter services of your desired airlines. They occasionally offer discounted prices for flying first class to Asia. They may even give you a first-class seat at an economy price, or they may offer special packages with upgrades using your frequent flyer miles.

3. Do some online research

Look for the airplane model that you prefer for your next trip to Asia. Some airlines use a variety models for the same route. If comfortable seats are your priority, compare the first-class seats of one airline to another. Several sites offer this information for free.

Also, before purchasing a ticket, make sure that it is entitled to an upgrade. Tickets full of restrictions are difficult (or even impossible) to upgrade, making your dream to fly first class to Asia just a dream.

4. Look for discounts

Competition among carriers in the US is fierce. Offering incentives and upgrades on Asian flights where they have several flight schedules in a week is one way that carriers use to lure passengers. You can also find great deals at the airport. If the flight is not fully booked, or if you are flying during an off-peak season, ask politely about the possibility of an upgrade without annoying the airline staff.

5. Be a master and learn

Staying loyal to one airline is highly recommended. Learn from your experiences with different airlines. Ask family and friends their opinion on airlines, especially those who have flown first class to Asia. Be mindful of what does and does not work and experiment until you get the right mix.
Acquiring upgrades and discounts is an art: the more knowledge you gain, the more you will be rewarded. Fly first class to Asia and have a great trip!