Upgrading to Delta First Class is one of the best ways to enjoy a more comfortable and stress-free flight. From wider seats to priority services, Delta’s First Class cabin adds luxury to your journey. The good news is that you don’t always need to buy a First Class ticket upfront—there are several ways to upgrade without paying full price. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand all the upgrade options in 2025.

1. Use Delta SkyMiles for an Upgrade

One of the most popular ways to upgrade is by using Delta SkyMiles. When you book a Main Cabin or Comfort+ ticket, you can choose to upgrade to First Class using your miles. The number of miles required changes depending on the route, demand, and travel date. The earlier you check, the better the chance of finding a lower-mileage upgrade.

1. Take Advantage of Medallion Elite Status

If you are a Delta Medallion Member, you get special upgrade benefits.

i.) Silver Medallion members get complimentary upgrades, but mainly on shorter flights.
ii.) Gold Medallion members have a higher chance of clearing an upgrade.
iii.) Platinum and Diamond Medallion members get the best upgrade priority and can also use Regional or Global Upgrade Certificates for guaranteed upgrades on eligible flights.

Your upgrade priority is determined by your status level, fare class, and booking time. Members with higher tiers often clear upgrades automatically before departure.

1. Check for Upgrade Offers at Booking

When booking your flight online at Delta.com or on the Delta app, you may see an upgrade offer displayed during checkout. These offers are often cheaper than buying First Class later. If you already have a ticket, simply visit “My Trips” to check if a discounted upgrade is available.

1. Upgrade at Check-In or the Airport

If you didn’t get an upgrade earlier, don’t worry. Delta sometimes offers last-minute upgrades at check-in or at the gate. These can be surprisingly affordable, especially for flights that still have unsold First Class seats. Just ask an agent or check the Delta app during online check-in.

1. Use Credit Card Benefits

Certain Delta SkyMiles American Express cards provide extra perks, such as priority for upgrades or bonus miles that you can use for future upgrades. These cards also help you reach Medallion status faster, increasing your upgrade chances in the future.

1. Book the Right Fare Class

Some fares have a better upgrade chance than others. For example, Main Cabin fares are easier to upgrade than Basic Economy, which usually cannot be upgraded at all. Choosing a flexible or higher Main Cabin fare increases your chances of moving to First Class.