Flight Upgrade Cost Calculator
Compare the cost of upgrading your flight using cash versus airline miles
Upgrade Options
New York (JFK) to London (LHR) – 3,461 miles
Cash Upgrade
$1,200
Value per mile: $0.02
Savings: 15% off retail
Process: Instant confirmation
Miles Upgrade
25,000 miles
Value per mile: $0.04
Cash co-pay: $350
Process: Waitlist available
Best Value
$950 + 15,000 miles
Value per mile: $0.05
Savings: 30% better
Process: Instant confirmation
Value Comparison
2.0¢/mile
3.4¢/mile
4.5¢/mile
Airline Upgrade Policies
Delta SkyMiles Upgrade Policy
- Upgrade Window: Immediately after booking until check-in
- Miles Required: 15,000-50,000 depending on route
- Co-pay: $75-$350 international flights
- Process: Waitlist clears based on Medallion status
- Best For: Last-minute upgrades on international routes
American AAdvantage Upgrade Policy
- Upgrade Window: 100 hours before departure
- Miles Required: 12,500-50,000 depending on route
- Co-pay: $75-$350 plus taxes
- Process: Systemwide upgrades available for elites
- Best For: Upgrades on transcontinental flights
United MileagePlus Upgrade Policy
- Upgrade Window: At booking until check-in
- Miles Required: 10,000-40,000 plus copay
- Co-pay: $0-$500 depending on fare class
- Process: Instant upgrades for PlusPoints
- Best For: Premium cabin upgrades on long-haul
Emirates Skywards Upgrade Policy
- Upgrade Window: Up to 24 hours before flight
- Miles Required: 15,000-90,000 depending on route
- Co-pay: $0 plus taxes/fees
- Process: Waitlist with priority for elites
- Best For: Upgrades to First Class on A380
Lufthansa Miles & More Upgrade Policy
- Upgrade Window: Up to 2 hours before departure
- Miles Required: 20,000-70,000 depending on route
- Co-pay: €100-€400 plus taxes
- Process: Bid system for last-minute upgrades
- Best For: Upgrades on European business routes