Thai Airways Upgrade

Flying economy with Thailand's national carrier doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the perks of a higher class. Thai Airways Upgrade options allow you to uplift your travel experience without the premium price tag. Whether you want to use your Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) miles, points from other Star Alliance frequent flyer programs, or even cash or credit card at check-in, Thai Airways has you covered. For Thai Airways Gold or Platinum status members, there's an extra treat: a complimentary upgrade every year you maintain your membership status.

Step-by-Step Guide to Upgrading on Thai Airways

No matter your situation, upgrading on Thai Airways is straightforward. Here's how you can make the most of your opportunities:

1. Check Your ROP Miles or Star Alliance Points: Ensure you have enough miles or points to qualify for an upgrade. Log into your frequent flyer account to verify your balance.
   
   

2. Book Your Economy Ticket: Start by booking your economy class ticket through Thai Airways’ website, mobile app, or travel agent.
   
   

3. Request an Upgrade: Use your ROP miles or Star Alliance points to request an upgrade. You can do this online through the Thai Airways website or by contacting their customer service.
   
   

4. Stand-By Upgrade at Check-In: If you prefer to upgrade with cash or credit card, arrive at the airport early and inquire about stand-by upgrade availability at the check-in counter.
   
   

5. Enjoy Your Enhanced Journey: Once your upgrade is confirmed, relax and enjoy the additional comforts and services that come with your higher class seat.

Why Upgrade?

Traveling in economy with Thai Airways doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the benefits of a higher class. Thai Airways upgrade options let you enhance your travel experience without the high cost. You can use Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) miles, points from Star Alliance programs, or even pay with cash or a credit card at check-in. Additionally, Thai Airways Gold or Platinum members enjoy a complimentary upgrade each year they maintain their status.

So, next time you book an economy ticket with Thai Airways, remember that an upgrade is within reach. Whether using miles, points, or cash, there are plenty of ways to elevate your flight and enjoy a higher class of travel.

Key Points to Remember Regarding Thai Airways Upgrade

• Availability: Upgrades depend on seat availability. Just because seats are for sale doesn't mean upgrades are available.
  
  

• Using Miles: Upgrade your seat using Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) miles. Whether booking outright or upgrading an existing booking, miles can help you fly in a higher class.
  
  

• Thai Airways Flights Only: Upgrades apply only on Thai Airways flights with Thai Airways flight numbers.
  
  

• Class Upgrades: Upgrade from Economy to Premium Economy (if available) or Business Class using miles, except for the lowest-priced or promotional fares.
  
  

• Miles Requirement: Under Thai Airways Upgrade, the number of miles needed depends on the original fare class. Lower-priced tickets require more miles to upgrade.
  
  

• Complimentary Upgrades: ROP Gold and Platinum status members get a complimentary Economy to Business class upgrade annually. Platinum members earn additional upgrades for every 50,000 Tier Miles flown in Royal First or Royal Silk Class.
  
  

• Non-Upgradable Fare Classes: T, K, S, Z, G, V, W, and L fare classes cannot be upgraded.
  
  

• Eligible Fare Classes: Eligible fare classes for upgrades include Y, B, M, H, Q, C, D, and J. Standby upgrades at the airport may have additional eligible classes.

Elevate Your Experience with a Thai Airways Business Class Upgrade

Transform your travel with Thai Airways by upgrading to Business Class from Economy using Royal Orchid Program (ROP) miles or miles from a Star Alliance program. Here's a quick guide to making the most of this opportunity.

Key Points for Upgrading

• Availability: Upgrades depend on seat availability. Even if Business Class seats are on sale, it doesn't guarantee upgrade availability.
  
  

• Booking with Miles: Use ROP miles to upgrade if the same Business Class seat can be booked outright with miles.
  
  

• Eligible Flights: Upgrades are possible only on Thai Airways flights with a TG flight number. Codeshare flights are generally not eligible.
  
  

• Fare Restrictions: You can upgrade from Economy or Premium Economy to Business Class unless you've booked the lowest-priced fares like T, K, S, Z, G, V, W, and L.
  
  

• Miles Required: The number of miles needed for an upgrade varies based on the fare class of your original ticket. Lower fares require more miles.

Special Perks for ROP Members

• Gold and Platinum Benefits: Gold and Platinum members receive a complimentary return upgrade to Business Class each year. Platinum members also earn additional upgrades for every 50,000 Tier Miles flown in Business or First Class.

Upgrading as a Star Alliance Member

• Using Star Alliance Miles: Upgrade to Business Class using miles from your Star Alliance Frequent Flyer Program, but only if you've purchased the highest-priced Economy tickets (Y and B fares).
  
  

• Miles Needed: The number of miles required for an upgrade varies by Frequent Flyer Program.
  
  

• Request Deadlines: Ensure you request and confirm the upgrade by the deadline set by your Frequent Flyer Program.

Cash Upgrades at Check-In

• Standby Upgrades: If you don't have enough miles, you can purchase a standby upgrade at the airport check-in counter. The cost varies based on your original fare class:
  
  

• Costlier Economy Y/B fares: Lower upgrade cost
  
  

• Cheaper Economy M/H/Q/T/K fares: Moderate upgrade cost
  
  

• Economy S/V/W fares: Higher upgrade cost

Example Upgrade Costs

For flights between Bangkok and Australian cities like Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne, the standby upgrade prices at check-in are:

• AUD 1,223 for Y/B fares
  
  

• AUD 1,675 for M/H/Q/T/K fares
  
  

• AUD 1,942 for S/V/W fares

Final Tips

• Always Check Availability: Upgrades depend on seat and catering availability.
  
  

• Request Early: Upgrade as soon as possible to increase your chances.
  
  

• Enjoy the Benefits: Business Class offers more legroom, priority services, gourmet meals, and lounge access, making your journey much more comfortable and enjoyable.

Upgrade your next Thai Airways flight and experience the luxury and comfort of Business Class. Whether you use miles or opt for a cash upgrade at check-in, you'll enjoy a superior travel experience that transforms your journey into a memorable adventure.

Upgrade Your Journey with Thai Airways Airport Standby Options

Looking to upgrade your travel experience on Thai Airways? Their airport upgrade, also known as a standby upgrade, offers a fantastic opportunity to move up to a higher class at the airport check-in counter. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this perk.

Key Points about Thai Airways Airport Upgrades

• Availability: Airport upgrades can only be purchased at the check-in counter and are not available for pre-booking online or through other means.
  
  

• Surcharge Details: The upgrade charges, referred to as surcharges, are per passenger and vary based on the city of departure. These apply to all standard fares ticketed as THAI 217 travel documents on flights operated by Thai Airways with three-digit flight numbers.

Important Restrictions

• Ineligible Tickets: Certain tickets do not qualify for airport upgrades, including:
  
  

• Discounted travel agent or industry fares
  
  

• Frequent flyer redemption tickets
  
  

• ZED (Zonal Employee Discount) tickets
  
  

• Barter tickets
  
  

• Tickets issued by interline partners or other airlines
  
  

• Infant and Child Discounts: These discounts do not apply to airport upgrades.
  
  

• Additional Taxes: Any extra taxes must be paid by the passenger.
  
  

• Frequent Flyer Miles: Miles accrued will be based on the original fare, not the upgraded fare.
  
  

• First Class Upgrades: Surcharges for upgrading from Business Class (Royal Silk) to First Class (Royal First) only apply on flights to Thailand that offer a First Class cabin.

Enhancing Your Journey

With Thai Airways airport upgrade, you can enjoy a more luxurious travel experience without the need to pre-plan. Whether you're moving up to Business or First Class, you’ll gain access to premium services like extra legroom, priority boarding, gourmet meals, and exclusive lounge access.

Next time you’re flying with Thai Airways, consider asking about a standby upgrade at the check-in counter. It’s a great way to elevate your journey and make your travel experience truly memorable. Enjoy the luxury and comfort that comes with flying in a higher class, making every mile of your trip more enjoyable and relaxing.

Upgrade Your Journey with Thai Airways

No Bidding, Just Upgrades

Unlike some airlines, Thai Airways doesn't offer a "bid for upgrade" option. Instead, you can upgrade your seat using Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) Miles, Star Alliance Miles, or cash through a standby upgrade at the airport. Simply apply for an upgrade, and your chances will depend on seat availability. The earlier you request, the better your odds.

Free Upgrades with Thai Airways

Free upgrades on Thai Airways are uncommon, but there are exceptions:

• Gold or Platinum Status: If you maintain ROP Gold or Platinum status for a year, you'll receive a complimentary return ticket upgrade from Economy to Business Class to a destination of your choice.
  
  

• Platinum Tier Miles: Accumulating 50,000 tier miles in a year as a Platinum member while flying First (Royal First) or Business Class (Royal Silk) earns you free upgrades.
  
  

• Overbooking: Occasionally, you may be bumped to a higher class due to overbooking, especially if you're a valued customer.
  
  

• Using Miles: Upgrades using your existing ROP/Star Alliance Miles without cash payment.

Understanding Mileage Upgrades

Mileage upgrades allow you to use ROP Miles or Star Alliance Miles to move from a lower-class seat to a higher-class seat. This includes upgrading from Economy/Premium Economy to Business Class or from Business Class to First Class.

• Miles Requirement: The number of Miles needed depends on your fare type and route. Lower fare classes (T, K, S, Z, G, V, W, and L) typically don't qualify for upgrades, while higher fare classes (Y, B, M, H, Q, C, D, and J) do.
  
  

• Star Alliance Upgrades: For Star Alliance Miles, only higher fare classes (Economy Y and B) qualify for upgrades, and the required Miles depend on the frequent flyer program.

Upgrading to Premium Economy

Upgrading to Premium Economy (if available on your flight) is an option for passengers with higher-priced Economy Class tickets (Y, B, M, H, Q, C, D, and J). Passengers with lower fare types (T, K, S, Z, G, V, W, and L) or promotional fares are not eligible.

• Upgrade Cost: The cost in ROP Miles, Star Alliance Miles, or cash depends on your fare type and route. Lower-priced tickets require more Miles or cash for the same upgrade.

Cost of Upgrades

The cost of upgrading with Thai Airways varies:

• ROP Miles: Upgrades using your ROP Miles.
  
  

• Star Alliance Miles: Upgrades using Miles from a Star Alliance program.
  
  

• Cash: Standby upgrades at the airport check-in counter.

Thai Airways Seat Upgrades

According to Thai Airways Upgrade, you can upgrade your seat by phone, online via My Booking, at sales offices, airport ticket counters, or through a travel agent. Seat upgrades are available until check-in, but options may be limited closer to departure. To maximize your choices, upgrade as early as possible.

• Booking Reference

Have your Thai Airways booking reference number ready when requesting an upgrade, either online or through an agent.

How to Upgrade

You can upgrade online through your Thai Airways account or your Star Alliance member account at least 24 hours before departure. Alternatively, you can upgrade by calling a call center in your city, visiting a Thai Airways city office, or at an airport ticket counter (for cash/card payments).

Thai Airways offers several convenient options to enhance your travel experience. Whether you're using Miles or cash, planning ahead or opting for a last-minute standby upgrade, these strategies can help you enjoy a more comfortable journey.

How to Upgrade Your Thai Airways Flight Online

Upgrading your Thai Airways flight online is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to enhance your travel experience:

1. Visit the Thai Airways Official Website
   
   

• Open your browser and go to the Thai Airways official website.
  
  

2. Access My Booking
   
   

• Navigate to the "My Booking" section.
  
  

3. Enter Booking Details
   
   

• Input your THAI booking reference and last name.
  
  

• Click the "Find Booking" button to retrieve your flight details.
  
  

4. Select Your Flight
   
   

• Choose the flight you wish to upgrade.
  
  

5. Choose Upgrade Option
   
   

• Select the "Upgrade" option to use your Miles for an upgrade.
  
  

• From the "Select Class" option, choose your desired business class seat.
  
  

6. Payment with Miles
   
   

• Proceed to the payments page and pay with your accumulated Miles.
  
  

7. Receive Confirmation
   
   

• After upgrading, you will receive a booking confirmation email at your registered email address.

Note: If you lack sufficient Miles in your Frequent Flyer account, you can request a standby upgrade at the airport check-in counter on the day of travel. Payment can be made by card or cash.

Upgrade your travel experience with these easy steps and enjoy the benefits of flying in a higher class with Thai Airways!

Thai Airways Upgrade Chart for Award Tickets

Enhance your travel experience by using Miles for an upgrade on Thai Airways and Thai Smile flights. Here’s a handy guide to help you understand the required Miles for upgrading between Bangkok and various destinations:

Upgrade Chart by Zone:

Zone 1: Short-Haul Destinations

• Destinations: Cambodia (Siem Reap*, Phnom Penh), Laos (Luang Prabang*, Vientiane), Malaysia (Penang*, Kuala Lumpur), Myanmar (Mandalay*, Yangon), Singapore, Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi)
  
  

• Economy (Y, B, M, H, Q) to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: 12K Miles
  
  

• Economy (Y, M, B) to Business (Royal Silk): 16K Miles
  
  

• Economy (Q, H) to Business (Royal Silk): 18K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk (D, C, J) to First (Royal First): 31.5K Miles

Zone 2: China and Taiwan

• Destinations: China (Xiamen, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Changsha*, Guangzhou, Chongqing*, Chengdu), Taiwan (Taipei, Kaohsiung*)
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: 18K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 24K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 27K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk to First: 38.5K Miles
  
  

• Kunming
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: N/A
  
  

• Economy to Business: 16K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 18K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk to First: 31.5K Miles

Zone 3: Southeast Asia

• Destinations: Indonesia (Jakarta, Denpasar), Philippines (Manila)
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: N/A
  
  

• Economy to Business: 22K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 25K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk to First: 31.5K Miles

Zone 4: South Asia

• Destinations: India (New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad*, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Gaya*, Lucknow*, Varanasi*), Nepal (Kathmandu), Sri Lanka (Colombo)
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: 18K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 22K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 25K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk to First: 34K Miles
  
  

• Bangladesh (Dhaka)
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: N/A
  
  

• Economy to Business: 16K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 18K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk to First: 31.5K Miles

Zone 5: East Asia

• Destinations: China (Zhengzhou*, Beijing), Japan (Tokyo, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Sapporo, Osaka), Korea (Seoul, Busan)
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: 24K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 38K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 43K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk to First: 61K Miles

Zone 6: Middle East

• Destinations: Oman (Muscat), Pakistan (Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore), Saudi Arabia (Jeddah), UAE (Dubai)
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: N/A
  
  

• Economy to Business: 34K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 38.5K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk to First: 54K Miles

Zone 7: Australia

• Destinations: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: N/A
  
  

• Economy to Business: 52K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 58.5K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk to First: 81K Miles
  
  

• Perth
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: N/A
  
  

• Economy to Business: 38K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 43K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk to First: 61K Miles

Zone 8: New Zealand

• Destination: Auckland
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: N/A
  
  

• Economy to Business: 68K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 76.5K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk to First: 103.5K Miles

Zone 9: Europe

• Destinations: UK (London), Belgium (Brussels), Austria (Vienna), France (Paris), Denmark (Copenhagen), Italy (Milan, Rome), Germany (Munich, Frankfurt), Norway (Oslo), Switzerland (Zurich), Sweden (Stockholm)
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: N/A
  
  

• Economy to Business: 72K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 81K Miles
  
  

• Royal Silk to First: 112.5K Miles
  
  

• Russia (Moscow)
  
  

• Economy to Premium Economy/Smile Plus: N/A
  
  

• Economy to Business: 52K Miles
  
  

• Economy to Business: 58.5K Miles

Here’s a clear and user-friendly table for the Thai Airways Upgrade chart, showing the required Miles for upgrading between Phuket and various destinations:

Note:

• Codeshare flights operated by THAI Smile are included where indicated.
  
  

• Booking classes T, K, S, Z, G, V, W, and L are not eligible for upgrades. 

Thai Airways Airport Upgrade Fee

Upgrading your Thai Airways ticket from Economy to Business Class or from Business to First Class can be done exclusively at the departure airport, with the following key points to keep in mind:

• Upgrade Location: The upgrade must be requested at the airport check-in counter on the day of departure, and is subject to seat availability.
  
  

• Payment: All upgrade fees are payable only at the airport check-in counter.
  
  

• Trip Types: This upgrade option is available for one-way, round-trip, circle-trip, and open-jaw journeys.
  
  

• Discounts: Discounts are not available for unaccompanied minors, children, infants, tour conductors, or agents.
  
  

• Additional Costs: Any additional taxes or surcharges are the responsibility of the passenger.
  
  

• Miles Accumulation: Frequent Flyer Miles will be credited based on the original ticket fare.
  
  

• Refund Policy: Upgrade fees are non-refundable, except in the event of a flight cancellation.
  
  

• Ticket Eligibility: Upgrade fees apply to all Thai Airways documents and carriers, including standard and special fares, as long as you're on flights with 3-digit flight numbers.
  
  

• Non-Eligible Fares: The following fares are not eligible for upgrades:

• Agent discount fares
  
  

• ZED fares
  
  

• ROP Award Redemption fares
  
  

• Barter ticket fares

Upgrade Benefits: 

If you successfully upgrade, you'll enjoy enhanced privileges including:

• Increased Baggage Allowance
  
  

• Access to Lounge Facilities
  
  

• Enhanced Meal Service (provided the upgrade is completed at least 2 hours before departure)

Upgrade Costs by Destination

Thai Airways Baggage Allowance After Upgrading

Once you upgrade your flight from Economy to Business Class or from Business to First Class, you’ll benefit from the enhanced baggage allowance corresponding to your new class. Here’s how it works:

• Economy to Business Class: Enjoy the more generous baggage allowance that comes with Business Class.
  
  

• Business to First Class: Benefit from the increased baggage allowance provided for First Class travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions On Thai Airways Upgrade

How can I upgrade with miles on Thai Airways?

To upgrade with miles on Thai Airways, log in to your Royal Orchid Plus account, go to "Redeem Miles," and select the upgrade option. Choose your flight and complete the process. For help, contact Thai Airways customer service.

What is the price to upgrade on Thai Airways?

The upgrade price on Thai Airways varies by route, class, and availability. Check the Thai Airways website or contact customer service for accurate pricing.

How can I upgrade to Business Class on Thai Airways?

As per Thai Airways Upgrade, to upgrade to Business Class on Thai Airways, you can check available upgrade options on the Thai Airways website or contact their customer service for assistance and pricing details.

How can I upgrade to Premium Economy on Thai Airways?

To upgrade to Premium Economy on Thai Airways, you can check the available upgrade options on the Thai Airways website or contact their customer service for assistance and pricing details.

How to get an upgrade on Thai Airways?

To get an upgrade on Thai Airways, you can:

1. Use Miles: Redeem your frequent flyer miles for an upgrade.
   
   

2. Check for Upgrade Offers: Look for upgrade offers during online check-in or at the airport.
   
   

3. Purchase an Upgrade: Buy an upgrade directly through the Thai Airways website or contact their customer service.
   
   

4. Bid for an Upgrade: Participate in the Thai Airways bidding program, if available, to place a bid for an upgrade.

Is it possible to get a free upgrade on Thai Airways?

Free upgrades on Thai Airways are rare but may occur if you maintain ROP Gold or Platinum status, accumulate 50,000 tier miles, or use ROP/Star Alliance Miles. Occasionally, upgrades might also be granted due to overbooking. 

How many Star Alliance miles for upgrade?

The number of Star Alliance miles required for an upgrade varies by airline and route. Typically, you need between 15,000 to 60,000 miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class, depending on the distance and availability. For exact mileage requirements, it's best to check with the specific airline's frequent flyer program or their website.  

How does standby upgrade work with Thai Airways?

To request a standby upgrade, you must check with the check-in counter or the Thai Airways customer service team upon arrival at the airport. Upgrades are usually offered to elite members of the Royal Orchid Plus program or passengers traveling in full fare tickets. 

What is the cost to upgrade on Thai Airways?

The cost to upgrade on Thai Airways varies depending on your route, current class of service, and availability. To get the most accurate upgrade pricing, check the Thai Airways website or contact their customer service for detailed information.