What does instant upgrade mean on American airlines?

Answer 1

On American Airlines, there are a number of different upgrade options. If you want to "instantly" upgrade your ticket at the time of purchase, your only option is an Award Upgrade. That means using miles (about 15,000 miles 1way usually, Domestically), and usually a co-pay (such as $50.00 or $75.00 Domestically) with it, and possibly a ticketing fee. The mileage requirement and co-pay vary by destination, and ticketing fee varies according to advance purchase. You could also redeem a First-Class mileage award (putting you instantly into Business or First Class) or buy a ticket for the desired cabin. Elite members may have EVIP upgrades in their account waiting to be used, and that's about it. If you don't mind waiting until the day of the flight, the auto-checkin kiosk at the airport sometimes offers upgrades while you're checking in, for a nominal fee. These are called LFB, or Load-Factor-Based Upgrades, since they are only offered if there are plenty of seats left open. And in advance, you can be listed for an "Electronic Upgrade" (also called 'Sticker' upgrades, or '500-mile Upgrades'). These are confirmed 100 hours, 72 hours, or 24 hours in advance, depending on your Elite status in the AAdvantage Program (Gold, Platinum, or Executive Platinum).