American Airlines will stop offering complimentary upgrades from economy to business class for elite frequent flyers on several long-haul domestic routes beginning August 25, the airline announced Thursday.
The policy change applies to select transcontinental and Hawaii routes, including flights between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Los Angeles; Boston and San Francisco; Dallas-Fort Worth and Honolulu, Kona, or Maui; Phoenix and Honolulu; and Chicago O’Hare and Honolulu or Maui. Eligible travelers will instead receive complimentary upgrades to premium economy when seats are available.
Eligibility and exceptions
Elite AAdvantage members who purchase premium economy tickets or pay to upgrade from economy to premium economy remain eligible for a complimentary upgrade to business class, according to American Airlines. The airline stated the adjustment is part of a broader effort to streamline its complimentary upgrade process amid an expansion of premium economy offerings on domestic routes.
American Airlines spokesperson: “As American Airlines expands its offering of Premium Economy on more domestic routes, we are streamlining our complimentary upgrade process to deliver a more consistent customer experience.”
Industry context and broader trends
The policy shift reflects a wider trend in the airline industry, where carriers are increasingly restricting complimentary upgrades to protect revenue from higher-priced cabins. Delta Air Lines announced in 2025 that its loyalty program will prioritize customers who pay for higher fare types, while United Airlines has expanded premium cabins and restricted complimentary upgrades on routes with its Polaris business class service.
Reactions from travel experts
Travel and aviation expert Zach Griff characterized the change as “bad news” for elite flyers, noting that Delta will remain the only major U.S. carrier allowing space-available upgrades from economy to business class. Gary Leff, a points expert and author of the aviation blog View from the Wing, wrote that the move appears to be part of a broader effort to reduce complimentary benefits where revenue opportunities exist.
What travelers need to know
American Airlines emphasized that upgrade availability remains subject to aircraft configuration and seat availability. Some aircraft types in premium economy include middle seats, which may be assigned if other seating options are not available. The airline stated it will “do our best to accommodate your seating preferences,” though options may vary by flight.