Ask for Y-Up or Q-Up fares. According to FareCompare.com, every domestic airline offers discounted first class tickets. The airlines file the airfares using the same eight-number fare code as coach but the difference is the cabin type on the ticket, which is first class. The trick is to specifically ask airline ticket representatives or travel agents for these fares when booking your tickets.
Purchase your tickets from a third party. Search through discounted travel websites to find deals on first class tickets. Travelocity, Expedia and Orbitz are some of the online discounted travel companies that buy airfares in bulk, so you can usually find inexpensive deals by searching the sites. As well as searching for your specific travel dates, keep an eye out for weekly deals these companies offer on their home pages.
Name your own price. You can bid for airfares online at Priceline.com and pay only what you can afford. Once your bid has been approved and you have your discounted ticket, the website usually gives the option to upgrade fares to business or first class, also at a discounted price.
Sign up for online newsletters. Many airlines send out free e-newsletters to customers, informing them of upcoming deals and promotions that are not advertised anywhere else. You can find deals for first class by signing up for e-newsletters with multiple airlines. Even if you're busy, take the time to skim through the newsletter to catch any first class deals exclusively available to e-newsletter subscribers.
Fly with a budget airline. Avoid purchasing tickets with major carriers that can bump up the price of a first class fare due to high demand. Look for carriers that regularly offer inexpensive tickets and choose to fly first class with them. Flights may not depart and arrive at major airport hubs with some discounted carriers, but you'll be traveling in first class luxury, which is worth the slight inconvenience.
Look for flights through a travel agent. Contact your local travel agent and see if they are able to book you a cheap airfare in first class. Travel professionals know the ins and outs of the business, so you'll be paying a small fee for their services, but you can find a terrific first class deal with their assistance.
