Can I upgrade to business class on Delta?

If you’re planning to fly with Delta Air Lines, you may wonder whether it’s possible to upgrade your seat to Business Class. The good news is: yes, you can upgrade to Delta’s premium cabin, known as Delta One on long-haul flights and First Class on domestic routes. Whether you want more comfort, lie-flat seats, premium meals, extra privacy, or priority services, upgrading can make your journey significantly better.

This guide explains every way you can upgrade to Business Class on Delta, how much it might cost, and the best strategies to increase your chances of success.

What Does Delta Business Class Include?

Delta’s Business Class (called Delta One on international and select transcontinental flights) offers:

• Lie-flat seats

• Premium dining and free alcoholic beverages

• Westin Heavenly in-flight bedding

• Extra baggage allowance

• Airport lounge access with certain fares

• Priority check-in, security, and boarding

• More privacy with Delta One Suites (on select aircraft)

Because it’s Delta’s highest cabin, many passengers look for upgrade options—especially during long international flights.

Ways to Upgrade to Delta Business Class

Delta offers several upgrade methods, and the right one depends on your fare type, loyalty status, and availability.

1. Upgrade Using Cash

One of the simplest ways is to pay for an upgrade directly. You can check for paid upgrade options:

• During booking

• After booking through Delta.com → My Trips

• Using the Delta app

• At the airport during check-in

• At the gate (last-minute offers)

Cash upgrade prices vary widely based on route, season, cabin load, and how close you are to departure.

Typical upgrade range:

• Domestic flights: $100–$500

• International flights: $400–$1,500+

Sometimes, last-minute gate upgrades are significantly cheaper.

2. Upgrade Using Delta SkyMiles

If you prefer not to pay cash, you can use your SkyMiles to upgrade. Delta offers mileage upgrades on:

• Eligible Main Cabin fares

• Comfort+

• Premium Select (for upgrade to Delta One)

Mileage cost varies by route and demand. For example:

• Domestic flights may cost 9,000–25,000 miles

• International upgrades can range between 25,000–70,000 miles or more

You can view pricing under "My Trips" on the Delta website.

3. Complimentary Medallion Upgrades (For Elite Members)

Delta Medallion members can receive automatic, complimentary upgrades. However, complimentary upgrades do NOT apply to Delta One or Business Class on most long-haul international routes.

Here’s how complimentary upgrades typically work:

• Silver Medallion: Lower priority

• Gold Medallion: Medium priority

• Platinum Medallion: High priority

• Diamond Medallion: Top priority

Upgrades are subject to availability and processed in priority order. For Business Class, these are more likely on:

• Domestic First Class

• Short-haul international flights

• Transcontinental premium flights (limited availability)

4. Upgrade Using Regional or Global Upgrade Certificates

These certificates are part of Delta’s Choice Benefits, available to Platinum and Diamond Medallion members.

Regional Upgrade Certificates (RUCs)

Great for:

• Domestic First Class

• Some short international flights

Global Upgrade Certificates (GUCs)

Best for:

• Long-haul international flights

• Upgrading from Main Cabin, Comfort+, or Premium Select to Delta One

GUCs provide the highest chance of securing a Business Class upgrade, even on busy routes.

How to Check Upgrade Availability

You can easily check for upgrade options:

1. Log in to your Delta account

2. Go to My Trips

3. Select your booking

4. Look for “Upgrade with Miles,” “Upgrade for Cash,” or “Request Upgrade”

Delta also shows upgrade availability during the booking process with icons like:

• “Upgrade Available”

• “Mileage Upgrade Eligible”

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Delta Upgrade

Here are some insider tricks to help you secure a Business Class upgrade:

1. Book early

More availability and cheaper upgrade rates.

2. Fly on low-demand days

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are usually less crowded.

3. Gain Medallion Status

Elite flyers always receive higher priority.

4. Arrive early at the airport

Sometimes gate agents offer discounted upgrades.

5. Use Global Upgrade Certificates wisely

Best used for long-haul flights like:

• USA → Europe

• USA → Asia

• USA → Australia

6. Avoid peak seasons

Upgrades are much harder during:

• Holidays

• Summer

• Spring break

Final Verdict: Can You Upgrade to Delta Business Class?

Yes—you absolutely can. Delta provides multiple ways to upgrade, whether through cash, miles, certificates, or complimentary options (for elite members on select flights). If comfort matters to you, upgrading to Business Class can transform your entire travel experience, especially on long-haul routes.

Watching for price drops, being flexible, and acting early can significantly increase your chances of securing that premium seat.