6 Tips For Scoring Upgrades When You Travel

When all else fails, never underestimate the power of kindness. "The three most stressful times an airline gate agent has to deal with are canceled flights (whether it is mechanical or weather-related), overbooked flights, and upset travelers that have problems with flight itineraries," Spagnola said. "The gate agents appreciate nothing more than when passengers are respectful and are flexible on what the gate agent is trying to do to help them. Many times, I've seen gate agents upgrade passengers into business or first class because they were shown respect and compassion toward the situation."