American Airlines will stop upgrading some flyers on long flights
CNBC • • business
Key Points:
- Starting August 25, American Airlines will no longer offer free upgrades from coach to business class for elite frequent flyers on certain long-haul domestic routes, instead providing complimentary upgrades to premium economy.
- This change affects transcontinental routes such as New York JFK to Los Angeles, Boston to San Francisco, and several routes to Hawaii from Dallas, Phoenix, and Chicago.
- The move reflects a broader airline trend of limiting complimentary upgrades to preserve high-fare business class seats and boost revenue.
- Elite flyers who purchase premium economy tickets or paid upgrades remain eligible for complimentary upgrades, but seating options may vary by aircraft and availability.
- American Airlines emphasized efforts to accommodate seating preferences but noted that some premium economy cabins may include middle seats if other options are unavailable.
