UPGRADE WANTED

Have a question? Ask our expert Simon Calder

problem going out; it’s a daytime flight, with plenty of entertainment. Coming back overnight is a different matter; I would simply ask at the airport if upgrades are being sold, and decide if the price is reasonable; last time I flew on Virgin Atlantic (from Shanghai to London), upgrades to Premium Economy were being sold for $200 (£165).

Upgrading only inbound also means you avoid paying double Air Passenger Duty, which applies in all but basic economy from the UK.

Going first-class is a tempting proposition on overnight flights from America (Getty) Q Any tips for trying to get an upgrade with Virgin on a flight from Heathrow to New York? I’m taking my fiancee for a milestone birthday present and want to chance...