How to sneak into first class, flying around the world.

How to get free first class treatment while jetting around the world?  A question asked by many but answered by few. Stop reading if you're looking for a foolproof method.

This method is NOT foolproof and has only worked for me a few times. Persistence is key, don't be put off if it doesn’t work the first time. 


Before I delve into my foolish method. I want to discuss the morality of doing this. Sneaking into the first class zone of a cabin and claiming the first class treatment when you have only paid for an economy class ticket seems rather low, doesn't it? That said, you wouldn't feel the same guilt when asking for a free upgrade, no is there any ill feeling when bloggers suggest free methods of traveling or staying. This method will not exclude a paying passenger from first or business class. It will also not cost the airline any more money as leftover food and drinks are usually tossed, sometimes donated and occasionally pilfered by airline staff. So in reality, the only loser if you succeed will be an orphan given an economy bag of peanuts rather than a premium bag. So, no I reject claims this method is immoral or illegal.

If you still feel bad, don't do it. 

Back to the method.

This method only works on smaller aircraft. Don't try it on a jumbo jet or an A380. It will only work if you have to walk past the first or business class seats on your way to economy class.

Business class on China Southern Airlines. Much like the area I've snuck into.

Step 1: Try to get seats towards the front of the cabin. If things go wrong, you might be able to salvage your mission with seats just behind first or business class. Make sure you don't order any special meals.

Step 2: Make sure you are one of the last to board the aircraft. Let the others push, shove and queue up while you relax at the gate. If you are ferried to the aircraft by a little bus, let everyone else on first.

Step 3: Walk confidently onto the aircraft, if you spot any free seats in first class, sit down (carefully concealing your economy class ticket in the depths of your jeans/handbag).

Step 4: Enjoy the high life! Just relax and don't act suspicious.

Business class on China Eastern Airlines. Another airline I've managed to pull this off on.

If you wimp out at the last moment and don't take that empty seat, don't go back in a flutter as the steward might help you and remember your economy status. Continue to your real seat, at the front of economy.

After the plane has taken off, but before the cabin staff have been released, quickly dash to the empty seat.

What can go wrong:

No empty seats. Nothing you can do, try again next time.

Ticket owner takes his vacant seat. Apologise, feign error, find another empty seat or go to your own. This shouldn’t happen if you make sure you're the last on though.

Get caught by cabin staff. Apologise, feign error and go to your economy seat. Try again next time.

The passenger next door objects to you pouncing on his spare seat. Don't argue, just act silly, confusing a 45c for a 14c, "ditzy old me!".

It sounds too easy right? The key is confidence.

Key rule: If you get caught out, don't make a fuss. you just sat in the wrong seat. "I thought economy class had gotten better since I last flew! I'm sorry, where am I supposed to sit? Over there? Thank you." 

If it works for you, congratulations! It's worked for me a few times now. I've lived the fancy life for a few hours, now its your turn! Good luck!