AirTran offers free business upgrades to elite fliers

AirTran Airways announced Wednesday that its elite frequent fliers can now get free upgrades to business class at the gate based on availability.

Elite members of AirTran’s A+ Rewards program on any type of fare can upgrade to business class at the gate starting 40 minutes before departure, if upgrades are available.

AirTran, which is based in Orlando and has its largest hub in Atlanta, also said it will give elite and corporate customers priority standby status. Elite members will get a special phone number for questions and, when flying on AirTran’s partner Frontier Airlines, will have the same privileges as Frontier’s elite Summit members.

AirTran also said that effective Feb. 1, 2009, it will no longer create vouchers for rewards flights. Customers will redeem rewards credits for flights or upgrades.