Are upgrades better value than awards?

Only when you would have bought the eligible fare anyway. Otherwise the fare premium usually erodes the advantage.

Do upgrades earn miles?

Typically yes, because you are travelling on a paid ticket.

Award travel

Upgrade awards

Upgrades look efficient because they need fewer miles, but the eligible fare is usually more expensive than the cheapest ticket available.

The hidden cost

Upgrade-eligible fares are often well above the cheapest economy fare. Add that premium to the miles spent before judging the value.

Confirmed versus waitlisted

Some programmes confirm upgrades at booking; others waitlist them until departure. A waitlisted upgrade is not a plan.

When upgrades win

When you already need the flexible fare for other reasons, or when award space in the premium cabin is unavailable but upgrade space is not.

Programmes to look at

American Airlines AAdvantage Emirates Skywards Air France-KLM Flying Blue

Questions

Are upgrades better value than awards?: Only when you would have bought the eligible fare anyway. Otherwise the fare premium usually erodes the advantage.
Do upgrades earn miles?: Typically yes, because you are travelling on a paid ticket.

MilesQuote is independent and not affiliated with, endorsed by or partnered with any airline or loyalty programme. Programme names are used for identification only. We publish no fixed rates; every quote is indicative, prepared individually, and never a guarantee of price or completion. Always check your programme's own terms before acting.