Upgrading to first-class on American Airlines can make your flight experience much more enjoyable and comfortable. First-class seats have more legroom, wider seats, premium amenities, and enhanced service. However, first-class seats are more expensive and upgrades are limited. Here is everything you need to know about how to upgrade to first-class on American Airlines.
Ways to Upgrade to First Class on American Airlines
Use Mileage Points
One of the best ways to upgrade to first-class is by using AAdvantage mileage points. You can use your accumulated points to bid for a first-class upgrade when you book your flight. The number of points needed for an upgrade varies based on the flight, but it usually ranges from 15,000 to 50,000 points each way. You can log into your AAdvantage account while booking and see if any first-class upgrade awards are available for your flight.
Use a Mileage Upgrade Award
American Airlines offers 500-mile upgrades that can be used to upgrade from main cabin to first-class on flights within North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. These upgrades are valid on any American Airlines or American Eagle flight. You can purchase 500-mile upgrades with miles or with cash. Upgrades must be requested at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
Bid with Miles
You can place a mileage bid to upgrade using your AAdvantage miles. Bids can be made from five days before departure up until check-in. Enter the maximum number of miles you’re willing to pay for the upgrade. If your bid is accepted, the miles will be deducted from your account. This method does not guarantee an upgrade but gives you the ability to use miles to compete for first-class seats.
Use an AAdvantage Upgrade Certificate
AAdvantage members who reach certain elite status levels receive four systemwide upgrade certificates each year. These can be used to upgrade from any main cabin fare on American Airlines or American Eagle to the next class of service. Certificates are good for one year and may only be used by the member who earned them. They cannot be purchased.
Buy a Full-Fare First Class Ticket
Purchasing a first-class revenue ticket is the only sure-fire way to guarantee a first-class seat. While more expensive, buying a first-class fare upfront eliminates the stress of trying to upgrade later. First-class fares can range from two to ten times higher than main cabin fares.
Waitlist for a First-Class Upgrade
If no first-class seats are available when booking, you can add yourself to the upgrade waitlist. American Airlines will automatically waitlist Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Platinum members at booking. Other AAdvantage members can request to be added. Upgrades are processed first come, first served starting 24 hours before departure. There’s no guarantee of clearing the waitlist.
Upgrade Priority Order on American Airlines
When upgrade seats become available, American Airlines prioritizes upgrades based on elite status and full-fare ticket purchases. Higher tiers take precedent over lower ones. Here is the AAdvantage upgrade priority order:
- Executive Platinum members (top-tier elite)
- Oneworld Emerald elite members
- Platinum Pro members (second-tier elite)
- Platinum members (third-tier elite)
- Gold members (fourth-tier elite)
- Standard AAdvantage members
- Non-elite members with full-fare first-class tickets
- Non-elite members with full-fare business-class tickets
- All other passengers
As you move up the AAdvantage elite status ladder, you gain greater priority for free upgrades into first-class. Executive Platinum members have the best shot, followed by Platinum Pro and regular Platinum members. Gold members have the lowest priority among elites. Non-elites are unlikely to clear upgrades at booking without purchasing expensive full fare tickets.
Maximizing Your Chances of a First-Class Upgrade
While upgrades are never guaranteed, you can take certain steps to maximize your chances of scoring that coveted first-class seat:
Book Early
Try to book as far in advance as possible. The sooner you book after the flight schedule opens, the better inventory of first-class award seats will be.
Be Flexible with Dates/Times
Being flexible with your travel dates and times makes it easier to find available upgrade seats. Flights with lots of open first-class seats have better upgrade odds.
Request the Upgrade Early
Don’t wait until check-in to request an upgrade. Enter your name on the upgrade waitlist as soon as allowable to get ahead of other passengers.
Travel During Less Busy Times
Avoid holiday and peak travel times when planes are packed. Upgrade odds are better during shoulder seasons when flights are emptier.
Fly Shorter Routes
You’ll have better luck upgrading on shorter flights. There are fewer first-class seats on long-haul international routes.
Earn Elite Status
Elite status gives your upgrade requests top priority. Reach Platinum or Executive Platinum status to boost your upgrade chances.
Pay Full Fare for Premium Economy
Elites who purchase full-fare Premium Economy tickets stand a decent chance of upgrades to first-class.
Tips for Enjoying First Class on American
Once you’ve managed to snag that first-class seat, here are some tips for making the most of the experience:
Arrive Early
Show up to the airport early to relax in the Admirals Club before your flight. This perk is included for first-class passengers.
Dine In-Flight
Pre-order a special meal or take advantage of first-class complimentary dining. American partners with celebrity chefs to curate gourmet menus.
Use Preferred Check-In
You can use priority check-in lines along with elite members to save time. Separate security lines may also be available.
Review the Amenities
First-class seats have noise-canceling headphones, luxury blankets, amenity kits, and other perks. Get familiar with the amenities ahead of time.
Request a Special Beverage
Let the flight attendant know if it’s a special occasion. They can bring a commemorative cocktail or wine to celebrate.
Use Your Priority Status
You’ll be among the first passengers called to board and deplane. Take advantage of this perk for extra time onboard.
Bring Entertainment
Download movies, books, magazines, and playlists to your device. There are also entertainment options available at your first-class seat.
Rest Comfortably
With spacious reclining seats, you can actually get quality rest. Bring a neck pillow and blanket for extra coziness.
Conclusion
While upgrading to first-class on American Airlines isn’t always easy or cheap, it can be accomplished through various options. Focus on maximizing your upgrade eligibility by having status, booking early, and being flexible. If you score that coveted seat, take full advantage of the premium amenities and service. Flying first-class on American is an experience well worth the effort for frequent travelers.