How to Search for American Airlines Upgrade Space Using ExpertFlyer

I’ve long talked about the benefits of ExpertFlyer. It’s my “back door” into all of the information that makes you a savvy flyer, including, most importantly, better able to react to a flight delay or cancellation.

American is my go-to carrier, and I’m going to walk you through how to search for upgrade space.

If you haven’t read it already, stop and read this post first on what inventory you’re searching for if you wish to upgrade. It’s essential to know this information before I tell you how to search for it, because you need to know what you’re searching for first.

When you log in to ExpertFlyer, look to the left and click on “Awards and Upgrades.”

Then, plug in the information for the flight you want to search for.

Under the airline drop down menu, select American Airlines and you’ll see all the upgrade options available to search. This is where reading the post I wrote about upgrade fare codes comes in handy. 😉 For upgrade inventory, you’re either looking for “C” or “A” inventory, depending on your needs.

On the next screen, you’ll see the results of your search displayed.

If this area shows “0” under seats, that means there’s no upgrade inventory available.

What if I don’t see any upgrade inventory available?

I’d suggest calling American and being added to the waitlist. You can be added to the list if you’re using miles and a cash co-pay or using a systemwide upgrade. If your upgrade can be confirmed in advance, it will, otherwise it will be pushed to the airport upgrade list and you’ll find out of your upgrade cleared prior to boarding your flight.

What if I see upgrade inventory available?

Call and immediately book your trip, or call and immediately have the upgrade confirmed. You don’t want to wait, because the upgrade inventory may either disappear or another passenger could grab it before you. If you’re flying on a long international segment, you want this portion confirmed prior to confirming the domestic portion. Sometimes you may be able to confirm both at the same time, and sometimes you may not be able to, but if you can confirm the international part, do so immediately.

If you aren’t already enrolled consider enrolling in the American Airlines Platinum challenge, which is a free benefit with this membership card.

To purchase a subscription to ExpertFlyer, click here.

What questions do you have about upgrading on American?