Many people dream of getting an upgrade when they’re flying, hoping that the winning smile they give the cabin crew will be able to totally win them over.
But when they’re sat in the seat they booked, their smile has been wiped off their face, and they’re sat wondering how you’re actually supposed to secure a fancier and more roomy seat. However, one flight attendant claims it is possible to get an upgrade. Cierra Mistt has taken to TikTok to explain the trick you could try, which has secured many upgrades in the past.
She said that this tip is for “those who want special treatment on their flights” – which, secretly, don’t we all? Cierra warned people not to “bring gift cards” on flights, showing packages that passengers have given to cabin crew before filled with coffee shop gift cards, including a chap stick and a hand cream, with a hand written note saying “coffee on me”.
“So the majority of the time this happens [gift cards are given out], the passengers don’t know how many crew are going to be on that flight, meaning the majority of the time, at least one person gets left out”, she shared – which doesn’t make a great impression for the person who doesn’t manage to bag themselves a gift card.
But worry no more, because Cierra has shared “what you’re gonna do instead” of providing gift cards for the staff. She shared that on the way to the airport you should “stop at a store” and “pick out a bag of your favourite candy”.
Then, “pack it into your carry on, and as you’re walking onto the flight make sure you hand it to the flight attendant at the very beginning”, she explained. She continued: “We’re always in constant communication with the pilots and the flight attendants, so everyone onboard will know who you are and what you did for us”.
But what are the potential benefits of going above and beyond for your pilot and flight attendant? Cierra shared that you could get extra points or travel miles, a free upgrade, or even free snacks and drinks throughout the duration of your flight.
In the comments, someone wrote: “I have given bags of chocolates and only gotten a thank you”. Another replied: “I would imagine it’s not a guarantee you’d benefit – so just enjoy that you did something nice and any benefits is a bonus”.
One man penned: “If you hand candy to an attendant at plane entry, how do they know where you’re sitting”. Someone sassily responded: “It’s a tight metal tube in the sky. You’re defo findable”.