Here are 10 more top tips for getting cheaper first class and business class airfares:

1. Always join the frequent flyer programs of the airlines you fly on. You should try to have loyalty membership from at least 2 of the major world alliances. If you can attain elite status you will enjoy special perks such as free lounge access, upgrade priority and seating privileges. Some airlines in the US will automatically upgrade elite members to first class if there is space available.

2. Check out some of the trans-Atlantic all-business class carriers such as MaxJet and EOS Airlines. MaxJet operates a Boeing 767 with 102 business class seats of 60 pitch. It is possible to fly from New York to London for as low as $750 return on Maxjet this is a great deal and is cheaper than many economy fares. A new all business class airline SilverJet is set to join the market by the end of the year with flights from London Luton to Newark New York.

3. Also consider flying with some of the more off-beat airlines such as Air India, Pakistan International, Iceland Air and Kuwait Airways they all fly between the US and the UK and will undercut the business class cabins of the major carriers by up to 60%.

4. If flying from West coast USA to Asia, consider one of the minor Asian carriers such as EVA, China Airlines and Korean - they often have very good value deals to many Asian cities. Chinatown consolidators are another source of low airfares to Asia.

5. Stay informed! Watch out for occasional special offer business class fares available on the major airlines - you should always be signed up to their mailing lists. The major airlines like British Airways have recently cut some trans-Atlantic business class airfares in response to the discount all-business class carriers.

6. Ask if you can purchase an upgrade to business class at the airport. This can be done at check-in, at the gate or in the frequent flyer lounge. Airlines can offer one-way upgrades on international flights for as little as $200 this is significantly cheaper than booking a business class or first class ticket outright.

7. If available buy a premium economy seat - this is a class between coach and business class on an international flight. You are much more likely to get a free upgrade if the flight happens to be overbooked due to the very limited number of premium economy seats.

8. Buy an economy class ticket and then use your frequent flyer air miles / points to purchase an upgrade to business or first class.

9. If commercial airlines are too 'low brow' for you and you wish to fly by executive business jet then get a quote on an empty leg fare which can save you up to 75% off the normal jet charter fare - this can be exceptionally good value. Alternatively, consider a fractional ownership program such as the one offered by NetJets which can be more cost effective for a group of travellers than buying full fare first class tickets.

10. Get up to speed on first class air travel by investing in a good insider guide which can help you fathom out the airfare market and get you that elusive upgrade.