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Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee: How Much Does It Cost?

By flightshelpcenter

Published on February 10, 2026

Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee is one of the first things travelers check when they want more comfort without rebooking a brand-new ticket. Whether you’re aiming for extra legroom, lounge access, or a full flat-bed experience, understanding how upgrades work can save you time, money, and last-minute stress. In this detailed guide, we break down upgrade prices, methods, rules, and smart strategies—based on competitor analysis and updated for 2026—to help you decide if upgrading with Turkish Airlines is worth it.

If you need real-time assistance or want to check availability instantly, you can also contact Turkish Airlines support at +1 (866) 558-3017.

Quick Overview: Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee

The Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee is an additional amount passengers pay to move their existing booking to a higher cabin, such as Economy to Business Class or Economy to Comfort Class. Upgrade availability depends on the route, aircraft type, fare class, seat availability, and travel season. Turkish Airlines offers upgrade options through Manage Booking, online check-in, and sometimes at the airport check-in counter or boarding gate. Upgrade fees are dynamic, so they may increase or decrease closer to departure.

Upgrade Costs & Key Factors

Economy to Comfort Class Upgrade Fee:
On short- and medium-haul routes, the Economy to Comfort Class upgrade fee generally ranges from USD $50 to $200 per flight segment, depending on distance and demand.
Economy to Business Class Upgrade Fee:
On long-haul international flights, the economy to business class upgrade fee typically ranges from USD $400 to $1,500+ per segment, especially on routes to Europe, the USA, and Asia.
Business to First Class Upgrade Fee (Where Available):
On select long-haul routes and limited aircraft, the business-to-first-class upgrade fee may range from approximately USD $1,000 to $3,000+, subject to availability.
Route & Aircraft Dependency:
Upgrade fees are usually higher on wide-body aircraft and long-distance routes, while shorter routes tend to have lower upgrade costs.
Dynamic Pricing System:
Turkish Airlines upgrade fees are not fixed. Pricing changes based on seat availability and passenger demand.

How to Pay the Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee

Manage Booking Online:
After purchasing a ticket, passengers can visit the Turkish Airlines website and check available upgrade options and fees in the Manage Booking section.
Online Check-In:
During online check-in before departure, upgrade offers may appear with displayed fees if premium seats are available.
Airport Check-In Counter:
Last-minute upgrade options may be available at the airport, though fees here can be slightly higher than online offers.
Boarding Gate:
In some cases, upgrades may also be offered at the boarding gate if higher cabin seats remain unoccupied.

Important Things to Know

Upgrades Are Not Guaranteed:
The Turkish Airlines upgrade fee only applies if seats are available in the higher cabin.
Fare Class Restrictions:
Some discounted economy fares may have limited upgrade eligibility.
Non-Refundable Fees:
Most paid upgrades are non-refundable once confirmed.
Upgrade Benefits:
After upgrading, passengers enjoy higher cabin benefits such as improved seating comfort, priority services, and an enhanced onboard experience.
Miles Option:
Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles members can request upgrades using miles, cash, or a combination of both, subject to availability.

What Is the Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee?

The Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee refers to the additional amount a passenger pays to move from their originally booked cabin to a higher class after purchasing a ticket. This fee is not fixed and is calculated dynamically based on several operational, commercial, and demand-driven factors such as route, seat availability, fare type, and travel season. Understanding how the Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee works helps passengers make informed decisions and avoid unexpected costs.

Definition of Airline Upgrade Fees

An airline upgrade fee is the price difference charged by an airline to allow a passenger to access a higher cabin class than originally booked. On Turkish Airlines, the upgrade fee is influenced by real-time pricing systems, aircraft configuration, and remaining seat inventory. As a result, the Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee can vary significantly from one flight to another, even on the same route.

Cabin Classes Eligible for Upgrade

Turkish Airlines allows upgrades across multiple cabin classes, subject to fare rules and availability.

Economy Class: Most Economy Class tickets are eligible for upgrades. However, heavily discounted or promotional fares may have restrictions, making them ineligible for a Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee offer.
Premium Economy: Premium Economy upgrades are available only on select long-haul routes and specific aircraft. Eligibility depends largely on the aircraft type and the original fare conditions.
Business Class: Upgrades to Business Class are the most popular among travelers and also show the widest price variation. The Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee for Business Class is affected by demand, route length, and remaining premium seat availability.

When Are Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fees Charged?

The Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee is charged at the time the upgrade is confirmed, whether online, via mobile app, or at the airport. Once the payment is completed, the upgrade is generally non-refundable. Refunds are usually only possible if Turkish Airlines cancels or significantly changes the flight schedule.

Turkish Airlines Upgrade Cost – Pricing Factors

The Turkish Airlines upgrade cost varies based on several key factors. Understanding these elements can help travelers estimate pricing and secure the best value when upgrading from Economy to Business Class or Premium seating.

Route & Flight Distance

Upgrade prices are heavily influenced by flight length.

Short-haul flights: Upgrades typically start from $150–$300
Medium-haul routes: Costs usually range between $300–$700
Long-haul intercontinental flights: Upgrade fees can rise to $800–$2,000+ due to higher demand for premium cabins

Original Fare Type

Your original ticket class plays a major role in upgrade pricing.

Flexible Economy fares often receive lower upgrade offers
Restricted or promotional fares usually come with higher upgrade costs or limited eligibility

Seat Availability

Upgrade pricing is dynamic and depends on cabin availability.

Flights with more empty Business Class seats may offer upgrades at reduced rates
Limited availability often leads to higher last-minute pricing

Travel Season & Demand

Seasonality significantly impacts pricing.

Off-peak travel periods: Lower upgrade fees and better deals
Peak seasons and holidays: The Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee increases substantially, sometimes by 30–50%

Upgrade Method

The way you request an upgrade also affects the cost:

Cash upgrades at check-in or Manage Booking: Fixed prices based on route
Miles upgrades: Require miles plus taxes, often reducing cash outlay
Bid upgrades: Prices vary depending on demand and acceptance

Average Turkish Airlines Upgrade Cost Overview

Economy to Business Class: $300 to $2,000+
Miles upgrade (long-haul): 45,000–65,000 miles + taxes
Airport last-minute upgrades: Sometimes discounted if seats remain

Last Minute Upgrade Turkish Airlines – Airport vs Online

Choosing between an online upgrade and a last-minute airport upgrade on Turkish Airlines can impact both price and availability. The table below highlights the key differences to help travelers decide the best upgrade option.

Turkish Airlines Last-Minute Upgrade Comparison

Feature	Online Upgrade (Manage Booking)	Airport Counter Upgrade	Gate Upgrade Request
Availability	Depends on seat inventory	Subject to same-day seat availability	Only if Business Class seats remain unsold
Price Range	Fixed pricing based on route	Sometimes cheaper than online offers	Often discounted but inconsistent
Payment Options	Credit/debit card, miles	Credit/debit card	Credit/debit card
Upgrade Confirmation	Immediate confirmation	Confirmed at airport	Confirmed just before boarding
Convenience	Upgrade in advance from home	Requires airport visit	Requires waiting at the gate
Risk Level	Low – seat secured early	Medium – not guaranteed	High – may not be offered
Best For	Travelers who want certainty	Flexible travelers seeking deals	Risk-takers chasing last-minute savings

Airport Counter Upgrades

Airport counter upgrades on Turkish Airlines can occasionally be cheaper than online upgrade prices, especially on less crowded flights. However, availability is never guaranteed, particularly on popular routes.

Gate Upgrade Requests

Gate upgrades are only offered when Business Class seats remain unsold close to departure. These upgrades are rare on high-demand flights and depend entirely on last-minute cabin availability.

Risks of Waiting Until Departure

Waiting until the airport can result in no upgrade being available, especially during peak travel seasons or on fully booked flights. In such cases, passengers must fly in their original cabin class.

Turkish Airlines Upgrade Online – All Available Methods

Passengers looking to move to a higher cabin can use several Turkish Airlines upgrade online options. These methods provide real-time pricing, quick confirmation, and flexibility depending on seat availability and demand.

Upgrade via Manage Booking

The Manage Booking option on the Turkish Airlines website is the most reliable way to upgrade your seat.

Displays real-time upgrade prices based on route and availability
Allows upgrades using credit/debit cards or Miles&Smiles miles
Confirms the upgrade instantly once payment is completed

This method is ideal for travelers who want price transparency and guaranteed confirmation.

Upgrade During Online Check-in

Online check-in upgrades become available 24 hours before departure and can sometimes offer reduced pricing.

Prices may drop if Business Class seats remain unsold
Availability depends on flight load and travel season
Upgrade confirmation is immediate if seats are available

This option works best for flexible travelers seeking last-minute savings.

Upgrade Using the Turkish Airlines Mobile App

The Turkish Airlines mobile app provides a fast and convenient way to secure upgrades on the go.

Access exclusive last-minute upgrade offers
Receive instant notifications when upgrades become available
Ideal for airport and same-day upgrade requests

The app is especially useful for travelers who prefer mobile-first booking management.

Turkish Airlines Upgrade to Business Class Price – What to Expect

The Turkish Airlines upgrade to Business Class price depends on multiple factors, including route distance, fare type, seat availability, and travel season. Below is a detailed breakdown of upgrade pricing and the value you can expect when moving to Business Class.

Economy to Business Class Upgrade

Upgrading from Economy to Business Class on Turkish Airlines comes with the widest price range.

Short-haul flights: approximately $250–$500
Medium-haul routes: around $500–$900
Long-haul international flights: typically $900–$2,500+

Prices increase on high-demand routes and peak travel dates, especially for intercontinental flights.

Premium Economy to Business Class Upgrade

Premium Economy passengers often receive lower upgrade offers because the fare class is already higher.

Average upgrade price:$300–$800
Availability: Limited, as Premium Economy cabins are smaller
Best value: Medium- and long-haul routes with unsold Business Class seats

This option is usually cheaper than Economy upgrades, but seats may not always be available.

Turkish Airlines Business Class Benefits Overview

Passengers who upgrade to Business Class receive a full premium travel experience, including:

Lie-flat seats with direct aisle access on long-haul aircraft
Business Class lounge access at Turkish Airlines hubs and partner airports
Priority check-in, security, and boarding
Enhanced dining with multi-course meals and premium beverages
Increased baggage allowance, typically 2 checked bags up to 32 kg each

These premium benefits are the main reason many travelers accept the Turkish Airlines Upgrade Fee, especially on long-haul international flights where comfort and rest are essential.

Average Turkish Airlines Business Class Upgrade Cost Summary

Economy → Business Class: $250 to $2,500+
Premium Economy → Business Class: $300 to $800
Miles upgrade (long-haul): 45,000–65,000 miles + taxes

Turkish Airlines Upgrade With Cash – Payment Rules

A Turkish Airlines upgrade with cash is one of the fastest and most straightforward ways to move to a higher cabin class. Passengers can pay for upgrades online, during check-in, or at the airport, depending on seat availability and route demand.

Turkish Airlines generally accepts major credit cards and debit cards for cash upgrades across its website, mobile app, airport counters, and check-in desks. On select routes and fare types, travelers may also be offered mixed payment options, allowing a combination of cash and Miles&Smiles miles to reduce the total upgrade cost.

When it comes to refundability, most cash upgrades on Turkish Airlines are non-refundable once confirmed. After payment is completed and the upgrade is issued, changes or cancellations typically do not qualify for a refund, even if the original ticket allows flexibility. For this reason, passengers are advised to confirm travel plans before accepting a paid upgrade.

Turkish Airline Upgrade to Business Class – Step-by-Step Guide

Upgrading to Business Class on Turkish Airlines is a simple process when you follow the correct steps and timing. Below is a clear, SEO-optimized, step-by-step guide explaining how to request and confirm a Business Class upgrade.

Check Eligibility for a Business Class Upgrade

Before requesting an upgrade, confirm that your ticket meets Turkish Airlines upgrade requirements. You must have a valid, confirmed ticket, an eligible fare class, and Business Class seats available on your flight. Restricted promotional fares may have limited upgrade options.

Choose the Right Upgrade Method

Turkish Airlines allows Business Class upgrade requests through multiple channels. You can request an upgrade online via Manage Booking, during online check-in, through the mobile app, or at the airport counter or gate, depending on availability.

Select Your Upgrade Timing

The upgrade request timeline starts immediately after booking confirmation and can remain open until gate closure. Online upgrades typically appear earlier, while airport and gate upgrades depend on last-minute seat availability.

Review Pricing and Seat Availability

Upgrade prices vary by route, demand, and travel season. Before proceeding, review the displayed upgrade cost, included services, and seat assignment details to ensure the offer meets your expectations.

Complete Payment

Once you accept the upgrade offer, complete payment using credit or debit cards, or miles (where available). Payment confirmation triggers the upgrade process instantly.

Receive Upgrade Confirmation

Upgrade confirmation is usually instant once payment is successfully processed and Business Class seats are assigned. Your updated boarding pass and seat details will appear in Manage Booking and the Turkish Airlines mobile app.

Get Manual Confirmation Support if Needed

If you experience issues with upgrade confirmation, seat assignment, or payment, travelers often contact +1 (866) 558-3017 for manual confirmation support and step-by-step assistance.

Conclusion

The Turkish Airlines upgrade fee varies based on route, fare type, seat availability, and travel demand. While short-haul upgrades can be reasonably priced, long-haul Business Class upgrades come at a premium but deliver significant comfort and value. Checking upgrade options early through Manage Booking, online check-in, or the mobile app increases your chances of securing a better price, while last-minute airport upgrades remain a gamble. Overall, the upgrade fee is often worth it for travelers seeking enhanced comfort, priority services, and a premium inflight experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay the upgrade fee after booking on Turkish Airlines?

Yes, Turkish Airlines allows passengers to request and pay for an upgrade after booking. You can upgrade through Manage Booking, during online check-in, or directly at the airport, depending on seat availability. Upgrade options may include Economy to Business Class or paid seat upgrades.

Are Turkish Airlines upgrades refundable?

In most cases, paid Turkish Airlines upgrades are non-refundable. However, if Turkish Airlines changes or cancels your flight, you may be eligible for a refund or rebooking under airline policy. Always review fare conditions before confirming the upgrade.

Can Turkish Airlines upgrades be transferred to another passenger?

No. Turkish Airlines upgrades are passenger-specific and cannot be transferred, sold, or reassigned to another traveler, even if booked under the same reservation.

Do Miles&Smiles members get discounted upgrades?

Yes. Miles&Smiles Elite and Elite Plus members may receive priority upgrade offers, improved availability, or discounted upgrade pricing, depending on route, fare type, and seat availability. Some upgrades may also be available using Miles.

Is upgrading cheaper at the airport on Turkish Airlines?

Sometimes airport upgrades can be cheaper, but they are not guaranteed and depend entirely on last-minute availability. Online upgrades through Manage Booking are generally more predictable and secure, especially on long-haul routes.