First Class seat...without the hefty price tag

Ever boarded a plane, walked through the First Class section and wished that you could be one of those passengers seated in a large comfy chair, drink in hand, and plenty of leg room to stretch out? Sure, we've all been there, but maybe felt that the price for a First Class ticket was too expensive. Instead, we just continue to tolerate the headaches of the economy class, complete with getting smacked in the head by passengers trying to cram their bags into the overhead compartment, climbing over other passengers to wedge yourself into your cramped seat, and having your knees crushed when the guy in front of you reclines his chair.

But now...there's a way you might be able to put yourself into a First Class seat...without the hefty price tag. Here's how it's done.

The next time you hit the web to find the lowest coach fare, search out one with a special code like "Q-up", "Y-up", or "Z". These fares are just starting to create a buzz, and although they may cost a little more than bargain tickets, you greatly improve your chances of being upgraded to that cozy First Class seat, especially if you are a frequent flier. And even better...you do not have to use up your frequent flier miles to get upgraded to that seat in First Class; you actually earn air miles when you purchase a Q-up, Y-up or Z coach fare.

So why would an airline offer a seat in First Class with a coach fare rate?

Airlines have introduced these fares as a way to generate additional revenue. According to the Air Transport Association, the airline industry has lost more than $42 billion since the start of 2001, and has had to drastically cut expenses and place restrictions on upgrades to generate revenue. Typically, most of the passengers sitting in First Class seats are not paying the First Class price; they have merely cashed in frequent-flier miles to secure that comfy seat. For example, many passengers purchase the cheapest ticket available, and then use air miles to upgrade to First Class.

But the airlines make little revenue when passengers upgrade using miles, and have been forced to restrict this practice and find a way to fill First Class with individuals that are actually paying for the seat. Consequently, airlines offer an undisclosed amount of seats at a Y-up, Q-up or Z coach rate to generate more revenue. And finding the Y-up, Q-up and Z fares online is fairly easy. With a few clicks of the mouse, you can visit any of the popular travel websites like Expedia, FareCompare, Orbitz, or Travelocity and search out these fares. In fact, FareCompare has a link for Y-up and Q-up fares right on their main page. Simply enter the departing city and a list of all destination cities will appear with the cost.

These fares have been a well kept secret for quite some time, but now are creating quite a stir. The next time you visit your favorite travel website to compare fares, be sure to look into the Q-up, Y-up or Z fare and try to score a bit more legroom for that cross country flight!