• Sometimes.  Check-in provides a chance to obtain a cheap or even free upgrade to a higher class of service. If there is space, you might be able to buy or negotiate an upgrade.  Most airlines wait until boarding begins before upgrading, but it doesn't hurt to ask at check-in.  Find out who to talk to and try your luck. A few tips to help obtain that better seat are :

• VIP or mileage program members get first preference.

• Try showing your membership in another airline’s elite club or mileage program. Stating that you want to compare services could get you that first class or business class upgrade.

• "Dress For Success".  Airlines have a tendency to upgrade "Suits" first.  If you look like you should be in first class maybe it will happen !

•  Try being extra nice and friendly with your request.  Never demand. 

Quite easily in fact !  You can be denied boarding for a number of reasons. Here are a few :

• You don't have proper picture I.D., passport or necessary paperwork to begin or complete your trip.

• If the name on your ticket doesn’t match the name on your I.D. you don't get on.

• Indignation or refusal to allow a search of your baggage, carry-on or your person, if necessary, will guarantee you a seat in the airport, not the airplane !

• Behaving in an abusive, disorderly, incoherent, violent or totally bizarre way will do it.

• Acting or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a sure winner.

• Refusing to cooperate with a reasonable request made by any security or airline personnel will set off alarms and keep you at home..