flight upgrades

[dana10639]

Does anyone know if I can request while checking in at the airport for an upgrade? The upgrade would be to get promoted from coach to business class. The airline is United, I am flying international. Do I have an advantage of getting the upgrade because I am signed up with them for MileagePlus ( frequent flyer) even though I just signed up yesterday? Also is there a way to get meal upgrade? Thank you!

[Pinotage]

You can ask. Ifthey are overbooked in coach you may get it. And you may not, being afrequent flyer member helps.

[Bangkok]

Economy to Business is hard, as Business usually is full.  If there are upgrades going, they are normally given to frequent flyers with a good history of flying that airline (or partner ailines - United are in Star Alliance).  There is no harm in asking though!

If you request a special meal (check the airline website for possibilities, eg veggie, kosher) you will get served first, but it is nothing special in terms of quality.