Flying business class entitles you to special perks like priority check‑in and boarding, lounge access, and more. Here are some items you can ask flight attendants, gate agents and lounge staff for. Because, why shouldn’t you?

Access to Lounges Before Your Flight 

Did you know you can request access to airport lounges as a business‑class passenger? Doing so will grant you free food and drinks, Wi‑Fi and often showers or spa treatments to relax during long layovers. (You’ll usually get access to the airline’s business‑class lounge, but some airlines also permit a guest in their lounge.) These businesses provide the amenities at no extra charge because you’ve already paid for them with your ticket. While inside the lounge, don’t be afraid to ask about any special perks (such as nap pods or massage chairs).

Request Amenities 

Flying business class means receiving some level of luxury service. Airlines go out of their way to accommodate upgraded passengers and will likely honor reasonable requests. ANA instructs guests “feel free to request” amenity kits if they weren’t provided pre-flight. Other carriers like Air France explain passengers can ask for “anything else you might need.” Here’ are some common requests you can make:

Ask flight attendants about anything you need to feel comfortable. If you want more pillows, blankets or another sleeping pillow, just ask. Flight attendants have stock they can bring from underneath the plane, so there’s usually no reason not to grant your request. Every business class seat is packed with complimentary goodies from headphones to amenity kits with skincare items and toothbrushes. 

Sometimes these extras (like amenity kits) aren’t distributed because of space or time constraints. If you want another kit to share with your travel companion (say thanks!) or notice it didn’t automatically come with your service, go ahead and request one. Flight crews normally keep extras on hand. Flight attendants can’t (and don’t) mind if you politely ask for another one.

Business class seats are designed around comfort and flexibility, with sleep modes that convert them into flat beds. Adjustable lighting and pillows, individual entertainment screens, and complimentary pillows and blankets are also standard. If you have questions about adjusting your business class seat, sleep modes, or using any feature, ask a flight attendant. Flight attendants are there to ensure your comfort.

Upgrade Your Dining Experience 

One of the best parts of flying business class is enjoying complimentary meals and alcoholic beverages. You can ask for upgrades or off-menu items too:

Special Meals

Request special meals like vegetarian or gluten free diets when booking. American, Delta, United and most airlines let premium passengers select meals days in advance. They’ll save a dish and ensure it won't run out before they get to you. If you have food allergies or dietary preferences, submit your special meal request at least 24–48 hours before your flight. This advice comes straight from airline menus. 

Ask for off‑menu drinks

Though your business class cabin will have an assortment of alcoholic drinks, gate agents and flight attendants can often get items not listed. You can ask if they have gin for a gin and tonic, or champagne if it wasn't offered. Flight attendants are typically happy to accommodate reasonable requests as long as the ingredients are onboard. Of course, if they don’t know what you want, they’ll likely ask what you’d like instead of guessing. If you fancy a mixed drink, don’t be afraid to request it.

Ask for extras

Airlines expect business‑class customers to ask for additional refills of water, coffee and even champagne. While some airlines don’t bother serving drinks unless asked, “feel free to request additional drinks as desired”, recommends one reviewer. Additionally, most airlines offer passengers snack baskets (filled with nuts, dried fruit, cookies, crackers, chocolates) or self-serve snack areas. If you want another pass or missed your flight attendant when they came around, simply ask. Airlines won’t charge you for these extras. Better yet, many customers have found airlines are willing to provide extra snacks (and even second meals) if requested politely.

On long international flights and some domestic carriers, business class comes with free alcoholic drinks and multi-course meals. Feel free to request your favorite bottle of wine, ask for more bread or crackers, and even ask for a salad if you’re still hungry. Airlines expect you to ask. 

Seat Changes and Soecial Requests

If you want to switch seats, want an aisle or window seat, or noticed a more favorable seat became available, ask. Flight attendants can help you change seats or point you in the right direction. Feel free to ask questions if you have special needs, like bassinet for an infant. Request these services early or as you board, so staff have time to accommodate you.

Baggage and Meal Requests

By now you’ve realized just about anything is available upon request when flying business class. Depending on the airline, upgraded cabins may include priority check‑in and security lines, two checked bags, and enhanced meal service. If you were expecting amenities like pajamas but weren’t provided, just ask. Services like pajamas may not be offered on daytime flights, but Virgin Atlantic assures you can “feel free to request” sleepwear if your flight is reasonably empty or it’s not too busy. Likewise, if something didn’t occur during boarding or service (like your expected upgraded meal), ask. There’s no reason flight attendants should only come around once.

When in Doubt, Ask and Be Polite

If you have questions about flying business class, you can always ask. Every rule or request above comes with the caveat of asking politely. Flight attendants, gate agents and lounge staff are there to help you. Most want you to enjoy your flight and can provide answers. If you don’t know how to use certain features on your business class seat or have questions about safety (like sleeping with the seatbelt on) don’t be afraid to ask. Though your seat comes configured for comfort and safety, flight attendants don’t mind explaining features again.

Politeness goes a long way. Asking flight attendants questions and realizing your suitcase is missing is one of the best ways to ensure they provide subpar service. Most veterans recommend simply asking your question with a nice “please” and “thank you.” You’re treated with respect. Simple requests like “May I please…” are likely to be met with “Of course!” Remember that flight attendants, gate agents and lounge staff are people too. When in doubt, try asking for a favor (“If you have an extra pillow, could I please have one?”). Nobody can say no to a polite please and thank you.

BCFlights Always by Your Side

Always remember that planning ahead helps. At BCFlights, we specialize in business‑class travel and can assist you in choosing the best seat layouts for your trip. Our travel advisors can help “choose the perfect seat map” for each flight so you get an ideal configuration throughout your journey. We also offer flexible booking, so if something does go wrong you have 24/7 support. In short, BCFlights can help ensure you end up in the best seat possible.

In conclusion, business‑class travelers should confidently ask for what they need to maximize comfort. Most amenities, from extra pillows and blankets to off‑menu drinks, meals, and amenity kits are included or available on request. Just remember to be polite. Enjoy the lounge, relax in your spacious seat, and don’t hesitate to make reasonable requests. With that attitude (and advisors like BCFlights to help you pick seats and manage bookings), you’ll make the most of your premium experience.