How to Get an Upgrade on a Domestic Flight. Most airlines market their premium cabin on domestic flights as "first class," and these are typically spacious armchair-like seats on narrow-body aircraft (those with one aisle). The best way to get upgraded to first class for free is to earn elite airline status.
What net worth do you need to fly first-class?
To have a top 1% net worth, you need over $11 million. Therefore, to comfortably buy a First Class ticket, you should probably have a household net worth of at least $1 million. $1 million is a top 10% household net worth.
Why is it so expensive to upgrade to first class?
First class creates a sense of exclusivity and high prices are necessary to maintain luxurious standards. "When someone does sit in first class, they feel like they're getting outsized value, whether in the form of an upgrade, award, or discounted first-class ticket," writes Schlappig.