Airberlin is now auctioning off upgrades to business class, joining the growing ranks of airlines which lets travellers bid for a bump-up to pointy end.

Cathay Pacific, Air New Zealand, Etihad and Airberlin's local partner Virgin Australia all offer auction-based upgrades.

The Airberlin Exquisite system sees economy passengers able to bid for a business class upgrade at airberlin.com/upgrade through to 72 hours before their flight departs, with the winners notified "at least 12 hours prior to departure."

"With this new service, we are offering guests the opportunity to treat themselves to an exclusive flight experience in Business Class on the spur of the moment" says Jacob Fischer, Vice President Distribution at airberlin (although this spontaneity needs to be scheduled at least three days before your flight).

"Guests can decide how much they are prepared to pay. Then a decision is made among the bids submitted as to who will go onboard in Business Class".

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