Dec 12, 2015, 8:55 pm
Last edit by: Prospero
FAQ: What's a Systemwide Upgrade SWU (ex-VIP / VIPOW / "eVIP") 2017 on
Please read this wiki for important information not documented elsewhere.
NOTE: CHANGES
NOTE: SWUs are no longer automatically awarded upon achieving Platinum Pro (PP) or Executive Platinum (EXP) status. Starting in the 2021 calendar year, AA switched to Elite Choice Awards. When a member achieves PP status, the member earns one Elite Choice Award. If the member goes on to achieve EXP status, the member earns two additional elite choice awards. Each elite choice award can be redeemed until 12/31 of the following year (example: a member who reaches PP in July 2021 has until December 31, 2022 to redeem the elite choice award). A PP elite choice award can be redeemed for one SWU or other choices; each EXP elite choice award can be redeemed for two SWUs or other choices. Therefore, a member who reaches EXP can choose from one to five SWUs. When an elite choice award is redeemed for one or two SWUs, the SWU(s) are immediately deposited, and expire one year from the day they are deposited.
NOTE: SWUs awarded in 2019 expiring 31 Jan 2021 have been extended through 31 July 2021; this is now reflected in online accounts.
NOTE: Upgrade waitlist priority is 1) Status, followed by 2) type of upgrade, 3)Rolling EQD earning for last 365 days as of 20 May 2017. Link to FT thread.
Remember: EQM earning will vary from 0 to 3.0 EQM per base mile, based on eligible fare class and marketing airline, on EQM earning fares.
As of January 2017
"The way your upgrade request is prioritized is you'll be listed according to your elite status level followed by (the type of upgrade - SWU and Upgrade Award, aka miles + copay), the number of EQD (Elite Qualifying Dollars) earned in the (rolling) last 12 months."
Upgrades are prioritized first by the following elite status levels:
Concierge Key SM (up to 120 hours out)
Executive Platinum (up to 100 hours out)
Platinum Pro (up to 72 hours out)
Platinum (up to 48 hours out)
Gold (up to 24 hours out)
After status tier, upgrades are prioritized by the type of upgrade (SWU and miles + copay before 500 Mile e-upgrades / UDU; your last 12 months' Elite Qualifying Dollar spend on AA. See FAQ: Earning EQD / Elite Qualifying Dollars on AA and partner airlines (2017 on) (EQD will include the EQD offset one might earn from spend on their Barclaycard Aviator Red or Silver card, as announced elsewhere in this forum.)
Date of request has no bearing on upgrade priority other than after all other priorities have been met and theres a highly unlikely tie.
From AA.com... "Before you get to the airport, requests for systemwide and mileage award upgrades are processed independently from 500-mile upgrade requests.
At the airport, upgrades requested will be prioritized in this order:
See: https://www.aa.com/i18n/aadvantage-p...am-updates.jsp
Systemwide Upgrade FAQ:
Q. What are Systemwide Upgrades, exactly?
Electronic Systemwide Upgrades, abbreviated SWU, also previously referred to as eVIPs or VIPs, are electronic instruments earned as stated previously. SWU generally allow the owner to upgrade up to three segments, more or less in the same direction, on any flights AA flies with their own aircraft (not valid on partners or codeshares -- flights must be marketed and operated by AA), on most paid, published fares to the next class of service. (Successful upgrades on a single SWU include EZE-MIA-JFK-LHR, NRT-LAX-DFW-LHR.)
Q. When do SWU clear?
Upgrades can clear immediately if the appropriate inventory is available (e.g., Coach to Business (and domestic First on two class aircraft) requires "C" class to be available, Business to First requires "A" class to be available). Otherwise, SWU may be waitlisted in priority of AAdvantage status, followed by last 12 months EQD spend (and within those, by fare class if they are full fare Y).
Q. Can I use SWU on codeshares operated by AA?
No. (Though 001 AA ticketing is not a requirement), the flight must be marketed and operated by AA.
Q. Are any fare classes ineligible / invalid for SWU upgrades?
Some government and consolidator fares may not be upgraded. Award flights may not be upgraded with SWU. See post #683 by JonNYC:
Invalid (for SWU upgrade)
*The reason for not allowing SWU / eVIP upgrades to be used in conjunction with a military/government fare is not based on the fare level (although they are discounted), but rather it is based on the full flexibility those fares provide. Military/government fares provide a huge benefit to the customer already in that they can be booked at the last minute and canceled or changed with no advance notice and no penalties. As such, they are not allowed to be used in conjunction with a SWU.
Can I still make use of my SWU and credit the flight(s) to another airline?
You are not supposed to. If switching from AAdvantage to another scheme's FFN, please be aware: Benefitting from a privilege granted for your AAdvantage status and changing your FFN to earn on another airline is generally prohibited by AAdvantage Terms and Conditions. Doing so might risk that benefit (e.g. upgrade).
From the AAdvantage Terms and Conditions (link)
Q. Can I see SWU eligible flights on aa.com? If not, where?
aa.com will show if a flight has SWU availability, provided the member is logged in and has sufficient SWUs in their account. One can see required inventory (A or C) using ExpertFlyer Upgrade and Award query (not Flight Availability query) or other tools.
Q. What is the priority order for SWU wait list clearing?
Priority for wait listing is based first on AAdvantage status of requestor, then by rolling EQD earning during las 12 months; within those criteria, full fare (J or Y) trumps discounted fares.
NOTE: once the booking goes to airport control you may have to request your SWU request be reactivated. Those travel companions previously prioritized by the sponsor's status no longer revert to their own status at airport control.
Q. How do I know if my SWU request has been waitlisted?
The app as well as the web page shows requested and confirmed upgrades.
If my SWU clears on AA but the flights is cancelled or delayed, and I get put on another AA or partner flight, will my upgrade be preserved / honored?
On AA and Joint Business Venture partners (AY, BA, IB, JL, QF), AA will attempt to honor the upgrade. On other airline partners it is unlikely.
Q. Can I gift SWUs to others, and will my or their status apply?
You may certainly gift SWU to others. They will have to provide you their information, including PNR, and you will have to call it in. Your status can carry over to one traveling companion (on your itinerary) until the SWU passes to airport control; otherwise, SWU priority will depend on the user's AAdvantage status followed by date of upgrade request.
Q. What if I apply a SWU to a traveling companion?
They will borrow your status if they are flying as your single traveling companion on the same flights. Otherwise, their status will determine their position on the upgrade wait list. This "borrowed" status was previously lost once the flight has gone to airport control; it doesnt now, but it pays to check and see if it has been mismanaged by software - it can be restored when it has passed to airport control.
Q. Can I sell or purchase SWUs to / from others (e.g. on eBay or CraigsList)?
While SWU may be gifted to others, AAdvantage rules prohibit selling / purchasing, trading or bartering various instruments, including SWU. A sold SWU will, if caught by AA Corporate Security AAdvantage Fraud (and they actively seek these out), cause SWU / upgrade cancellation at minimum and may even include closing the seller's account with forfeiture of miles, upgrade instruments and even elite status.
Further useful details about using SWU
● Members who achieve Platinum Pro (PP) status receive one Elite Choice Award, which may be redeemed for one SWU (among other choices). Members who achieve PP between 1/1/2021 and 2/28/2022 have until 12/31/2022 to redeem the Elite Choice Award. If an SWU is chosen, the SWU is immediately deposited and expires one year from the date deposited.
● Members who achieve Executive Platinum (EXP) status receive two Elite Choice Awards, each of which may be redeemed for two SWUs (among other choices). Members who achieve EXP between 1/1/2021 and 2/28/2022 have until 12/31/2022 to redeem their Elite Choice Awards. If two SWUs are chosen for an award, the SWUs are immediately deposited and expire one year from the date deposited.
● Members who reach 120,000, 160,000 or 200,000 EQMs between 1/1/2021 and 2/28/2022 may choose two SWUs (or additional redeemable miles or a gift of status) upon reaching 120,000, 160,000 and 200,000 EQMs.
● Two SWUs (more) are earned by Concierge Key members.
● Four SWUs are earned by those crossing Million Miler thresholds of 2MM and every Million Miles milestone thereafter.
● SWUs may be transferred or gifted (not bargained, bartered or sold) to anyone the owner chooses - the owner must authorize the transfer and provide at minimum the designated person's name, frequent flyer #, and PNR. Note fees and taxes may be due, such as APD / Air Passenger Duty due for flights originating in the UK (or with connections exceeding 23:59).
● AA tends to protect passengers granted upgrades with SWUs if IROPS move them to other oneworld flights, particularly JBV partners (AA, AY, BA, IB, JL, preserving already granted upgrades (not waitlisted).
● N.B. A customer may use an SWU to upgrade a flight that departs after the SWU's expiration date, provided the SWU clears (the upgrade is confirmed) and the ticket is (re)issued before the SWU expires. (Previously this had been allowed only for 'high value' customers). See for example:
https://thepointsguy.com/news/americ...wide-upgrades/
● N.B. In the good old days, if there were not sufficient C space (e.g., a party of three but only two upgrades available), agents could ask Revenue Management to release an additional seat, which revenue management sometimes would. This is no longer done, even for CK.
● If you don't want to wait list your SWU so that it automatically encumbered when a domestic segment becomes available for upgrade, but only want the domestic segments to clear if the international segment clears, ask the AA EP agent to waitlist the international portion but "DSR" the domestic segments; that way, the domestic segments will only clear if the international segment clears. Note: it's possible that the domestic segment has SWU upgrade inventory initially, but by the time the international flight becomes available to upgrade, availability is gone on the domestic flight.
● SWU application can include co-terminals: JonNYC, post #601: "This is the current list of MAC airports, and, as far as I understand it, are generally recognized for revenue tickets including SWU application to same:
● UK Air Passenger Duty / APD for LHR/UK departures: (Often incorrectly called "Luxury tax"): Departing from the UK (or on a layover of 24:00 or longer via the U.K.), you'll be charged the full APD (the lowest cabin class - usually economy - pays only half APD). This applies for upgrades to business only. Upgrading business to first doesn't incur this, (since your business ticket already included the full APD). This does not apply TO the U.K. or to connecting in under 24:00 in the U.K. Other airports may impose other taxes, e.g. HKG is USD $2.80.
● Through (two flights with the same flight number, or through flights with stops) flights pose challenges insofar as upgrade availability must exist on all sectors. You may have to call AA to use a SWU on through flights.
Suggested reading:
aa.com: SYSTEMWIDE UPGRADES AND FAQS
FlyerTalk: Upgrades / SWUs / eVIPs and UK APD / Air Passenger Duty questions
New *internal* changes will 90%+ eliminate post-expiration use of SWUs by JonNYC
This post in the thread entitled "Reversing Use of SWU. Is this possible?" (it is not. AA no longer allows cancelling a SWU and substituting "stickers".)
MODERATOR NOTE
Archived posts from 2017 may be read here.
Posts prior to 2016 may be read here: ARCHIVE: SWU / VIP / eVIP Systemwide Upgrade questions
NOTE: This thread is for the discussion of the mechanics of AA systemwide upgrades. For "chance of upgrade clearing" questions, please use this thread: 2015 Chances of Upgrade Clearing and Upgrade Availability Discussion (consolidated)
Please note there is a separate thread discussing lost / missing/ misappropriated SWUs:
Missing / someone else used / unauthorized use my SWU / VIP / eVIP (merged)
American AAdvantage Forum Moderator Team
FAQ: Internal IT changes eliminate 90+% of post-expiry SWU use 26 Jun 2014
Q. I've been able to encumber expiring SWU past their expiration date if I find the proper upgrade inventory available prior to that date. Is this feature still available to Executive Platinum members?
A. Not for most. The option was possible due to software limitations. New software, AAcoRN, put into place 26 June 2014, will prevent this from occurring for "unqualified" members; only "qualified" members will be allowed to encumber SWU past their expiry date in the future. (See post #1)
Q. How do I know if I am a "qualified" member?
A. You can try to call and encumber expiring SWU past their expiry. If you are not allowed to, you aren't.
Q. So, exactly who does AA consider "qualified"?
A. A very high value AAdvantage member, as measured by the internal "Helix" system, which assigns an "Eagles" ranking from 1 to 5 (the more, the better).
Q. I've never heard of this. When did it start?
A. AA's rating system was originally based on three colors, green, yellow and red, which changed to 1-3 Eagles and was later expanded to 1-5 Eagles.
Q. How are Eagles scores assigned? Are they static, or do they change?
A. It has been said spend and fare classes (think lots of annual travel in fare classes of D and above) may affect your Eagles score, as well as OSO and negative incidents you have experienced that might result in your moving your custom to another airline. It is also said your Helix score is updated periodically, perhaps even nightly.
Q. How can I find out my Helix score / how many Eagles I have?
A. You can't. AA employees are not empowered to discuss the Helix system with customers. If you normally get extra SWU once you've made EP, are allowed to extend SWU use and find EP desk agents are willing to bend rules for you often, speculative, you might have 4-5 Eagles rating.
Q. So, this is a hidden tier higher than Executive Platinum?
A. No, because it doesn't give you privileges beyond EP beyond those mentioned, e.g. courtesy Club membership or additional priority for boarding or upgrades, like Concierge Key may.
Q. Do others than Executive Platinum have Helix / Eagles scores?
A. It can be safely assumed all AAdvantage members have such scores.
Please read this wiki for important information not documented elsewhere.
NOTE: CHANGES
NOTE: SWUs are no longer automatically awarded upon achieving Platinum Pro (PP) or Executive Platinum (EXP) status. Starting in the 2021 calendar year, AA switched to Elite Choice Awards. When a member achieves PP status, the member earns one Elite Choice Award. If the member goes on to achieve EXP status, the member earns two additional elite choice awards. Each elite choice award can be redeemed until 12/31 of the following year (example: a member who reaches PP in July 2021 has until December 31, 2022 to redeem the elite choice award). A PP elite choice award can be redeemed for one SWU or other choices; each EXP elite choice award can be redeemed for two SWUs or other choices. Therefore, a member who reaches EXP can choose from one to five SWUs. When an elite choice award is redeemed for one or two SWUs, the SWU(s) are immediately deposited, and expire one year from the day they are deposited.
NOTE: SWUs awarded in 2019 expiring 31 Jan 2021 have been extended through 31 July 2021; this is now reflected in online accounts.
NOTE: Upgrade waitlist priority is 1) Status, followed by 2) type of upgrade, 3)Rolling EQD earning for last 365 days as of 20 May 2017. Link to FT thread.
- Executive Platinum members receive an additional two SWUs (or may choose bonus miles or to gift status) when they reach 120,000, 160,000 and 200,000 EQMs in 2021 (which includes January and February 2022).
Remember: EQM earning will vary from 0 to 3.0 EQM per base mile, based on eligible fare class and marketing airline, on EQM earning fares.
As of January 2017
"The way your upgrade request is prioritized is you'll be listed according to your elite status level followed by (the type of upgrade - SWU and Upgrade Award, aka miles + copay), the number of EQD (Elite Qualifying Dollars) earned in the (rolling) last 12 months."
Upgrades are prioritized first by the following elite status levels:
Concierge Key SM (up to 120 hours out)
Executive Platinum (up to 100 hours out)
Platinum Pro (up to 72 hours out)
Platinum (up to 48 hours out)
Gold (up to 24 hours out)
After status tier, upgrades are prioritized by the type of upgrade (SWU and miles + copay before 500 Mile e-upgrades / UDU; your last 12 months' Elite Qualifying Dollar spend on AA. See FAQ: Earning EQD / Elite Qualifying Dollars on AA and partner airlines (2017 on) (EQD will include the EQD offset one might earn from spend on their Barclaycard Aviator Red or Silver card, as announced elsewhere in this forum.)
Date of request has no bearing on upgrade priority other than after all other priorities have been met and theres a highly unlikely tie.
From AA.com... "Before you get to the airport, requests for systemwide and mileage award upgrades are processed independently from 500-mile upgrade requests.
At the airport, upgrades requested will be prioritized in this order:
- Status tier (CK, EXP, PPRO, PLT, GLD, no status)
- Upgrade type
- Systemwide and mileage + copay upgrades
- 500-mile upgrades on purchased tickets
- 500-mile upgrades on award tickets for eligible status tiers
- Rolling last 12 month EQD spend
- Fare booking code (highest to lowest )
- Date/time of the request
- Load Factor Based Upgrades (after all other upgrade requests have been fulfilled)
See: https://www.aa.com/i18n/aadvantage-p...am-updates.jsp
Systemwide Upgrade FAQ:
Q. What are Systemwide Upgrades, exactly?
Electronic Systemwide Upgrades, abbreviated SWU, also previously referred to as eVIPs or VIPs, are electronic instruments earned as stated previously. SWU generally allow the owner to upgrade up to three segments, more or less in the same direction, on any flights AA flies with their own aircraft (not valid on partners or codeshares -- flights must be marketed and operated by AA), on most paid, published fares to the next class of service. (Successful upgrades on a single SWU include EZE-MIA-JFK-LHR, NRT-LAX-DFW-LHR.)
Q. When do SWU clear?
Upgrades can clear immediately if the appropriate inventory is available (e.g., Coach to Business (and domestic First on two class aircraft) requires "C" class to be available, Business to First requires "A" class to be available). Otherwise, SWU may be waitlisted in priority of AAdvantage status, followed by last 12 months EQD spend (and within those, by fare class if they are full fare Y).
Q. Can I use SWU on codeshares operated by AA?
No. (Though 001 AA ticketing is not a requirement), the flight must be marketed and operated by AA.
Q. Are any fare classes ineligible / invalid for SWU upgrades?
Some government and consolidator fares may not be upgraded. Award flights may not be upgraded with SWU. See post #683 by JonNYC:
Invalid (for SWU upgrade)
- Military fares*
- Government fares*
- Agency/industry discounts
- Employee travel booked in E
- AAdvantage/promotion free or companion tickets
- Ticket designators that require a certificate (CEN20, etc.) - contact MSD to verify
- MSD Site products (ticket designator SITE)
- CAT25/CAT25 Group Fares for MCLA
- Charter flights
- Infant tickets
- Purchased extra seats (one passenger)
- Opaque fares
- Award tickets
*The reason for not allowing SWU / eVIP upgrades to be used in conjunction with a military/government fare is not based on the fare level (although they are discounted), but rather it is based on the full flexibility those fares provide. Military/government fares provide a huge benefit to the customer already in that they can be booked at the last minute and canceled or changed with no advance notice and no penalties. As such, they are not allowed to be used in conjunction with a SWU.
Can I still make use of my SWU and credit the flight(s) to another airline?
You are not supposed to. If switching from AAdvantage to another scheme's FFN, please be aware: Benefitting from a privilege granted for your AAdvantage status and changing your FFN to earn on another airline is generally prohibited by AAdvantage Terms and Conditions. Doing so might risk that benefit (e.g. upgrade).
From the AAdvantage Terms and Conditions (link)
Q. Can I see SWU eligible flights on aa.com? If not, where?
aa.com will show if a flight has SWU availability, provided the member is logged in and has sufficient SWUs in their account. One can see required inventory (A or C) using ExpertFlyer Upgrade and Award query (not Flight Availability query) or other tools.
Q. What is the priority order for SWU wait list clearing?
Priority for wait listing is based first on AAdvantage status of requestor, then by rolling EQD earning during las 12 months; within those criteria, full fare (J or Y) trumps discounted fares.
NOTE: once the booking goes to airport control you may have to request your SWU request be reactivated. Those travel companions previously prioritized by the sponsor's status no longer revert to their own status at airport control.
Q. How do I know if my SWU request has been waitlisted?
The app as well as the web page shows requested and confirmed upgrades.
If my SWU clears on AA but the flights is cancelled or delayed, and I get put on another AA or partner flight, will my upgrade be preserved / honored?
On AA and Joint Business Venture partners (AY, BA, IB, JL, QF), AA will attempt to honor the upgrade. On other airline partners it is unlikely.
Q. Can I gift SWUs to others, and will my or their status apply?
You may certainly gift SWU to others. They will have to provide you their information, including PNR, and you will have to call it in. Your status can carry over to one traveling companion (on your itinerary) until the SWU passes to airport control; otherwise, SWU priority will depend on the user's AAdvantage status followed by date of upgrade request.
Q. What if I apply a SWU to a traveling companion?
They will borrow your status if they are flying as your single traveling companion on the same flights. Otherwise, their status will determine their position on the upgrade wait list. This "borrowed" status was previously lost once the flight has gone to airport control; it doesnt now, but it pays to check and see if it has been mismanaged by software - it can be restored when it has passed to airport control.
Q. Can I sell or purchase SWUs to / from others (e.g. on eBay or CraigsList)?
While SWU may be gifted to others, AAdvantage rules prohibit selling / purchasing, trading or bartering various instruments, including SWU. A sold SWU will, if caught by AA Corporate Security AAdvantage Fraud (and they actively seek these out), cause SWU / upgrade cancellation at minimum and may even include closing the seller's account with forfeiture of miles, upgrade instruments and even elite status.
Further useful details about using SWU
● Members who achieve Platinum Pro (PP) status receive one Elite Choice Award, which may be redeemed for one SWU (among other choices). Members who achieve PP between 1/1/2021 and 2/28/2022 have until 12/31/2022 to redeem the Elite Choice Award. If an SWU is chosen, the SWU is immediately deposited and expires one year from the date deposited.
● Members who achieve Executive Platinum (EXP) status receive two Elite Choice Awards, each of which may be redeemed for two SWUs (among other choices). Members who achieve EXP between 1/1/2021 and 2/28/2022 have until 12/31/2022 to redeem their Elite Choice Awards. If two SWUs are chosen for an award, the SWUs are immediately deposited and expire one year from the date deposited.
● Members who reach 120,000, 160,000 or 200,000 EQMs between 1/1/2021 and 2/28/2022 may choose two SWUs (or additional redeemable miles or a gift of status) upon reaching 120,000, 160,000 and 200,000 EQMs.
● Two SWUs (more) are earned by Concierge Key members.
● Four SWUs are earned by those crossing Million Miler thresholds of 2MM and every Million Miles milestone thereafter.
● SWUs may be transferred or gifted (not bargained, bartered or sold) to anyone the owner chooses - the owner must authorize the transfer and provide at minimum the designated person's name, frequent flyer #, and PNR. Note fees and taxes may be due, such as APD / Air Passenger Duty due for flights originating in the UK (or with connections exceeding 23:59).
● AA tends to protect passengers granted upgrades with SWUs if IROPS move them to other oneworld flights, particularly JBV partners (AA, AY, BA, IB, JL, preserving already granted upgrades (not waitlisted).
● N.B. A customer may use an SWU to upgrade a flight that departs after the SWU's expiration date, provided the SWU clears (the upgrade is confirmed) and the ticket is (re)issued before the SWU expires. (Previously this had been allowed only for 'high value' customers). See for example:
https://thepointsguy.com/news/americ...wide-upgrades/
● N.B. In the good old days, if there were not sufficient C space (e.g., a party of three but only two upgrades available), agents could ask Revenue Management to release an additional seat, which revenue management sometimes would. This is no longer done, even for CK.
● If you don't want to wait list your SWU so that it automatically encumbered when a domestic segment becomes available for upgrade, but only want the domestic segments to clear if the international segment clears, ask the AA EP agent to waitlist the international portion but "DSR" the domestic segments; that way, the domestic segments will only clear if the international segment clears. Note: it's possible that the domestic segment has SWU upgrade inventory initially, but by the time the international flight becomes available to upgrade, availability is gone on the domestic flight.
● SWU application can include co-terminals: JonNYC, post #601: "This is the current list of MAC airports, and, as far as I understand it, are generally recognized for revenue tickets including SWU application to same:
- WAS (DCA, IAD)
- DFW (DFW, DAL)
- HOU (HOU, IAH)
- NYC (JFK, LGA) (I think there is a separate rule that says EWR is always part of NYC for this purpose as well)
- LON (LGW, LHR, STN)
- SLU (UVF, SLU)
- TYO (HND, NRT)
● UK Air Passenger Duty / APD for LHR/UK departures: (Often incorrectly called "Luxury tax"): Departing from the UK (or on a layover of 24:00 or longer via the U.K.), you'll be charged the full APD (the lowest cabin class - usually economy - pays only half APD). This applies for upgrades to business only. Upgrading business to first doesn't incur this, (since your business ticket already included the full APD). This does not apply TO the U.K. or to connecting in under 24:00 in the U.K. Other airports may impose other taxes, e.g. HKG is USD $2.80.
● Through (two flights with the same flight number, or through flights with stops) flights pose challenges insofar as upgrade availability must exist on all sectors. You may have to call AA to use a SWU on through flights.
Suggested reading:
aa.com: SYSTEMWIDE UPGRADES AND FAQS
FlyerTalk: Upgrades / SWUs / eVIPs and UK APD / Air Passenger Duty questions
New *internal* changes will 90%+ eliminate post-expiration use of SWUs by JonNYC
This post in the thread entitled "Reversing Use of SWU. Is this possible?" (it is not. AA no longer allows cancelling a SWU and substituting "stickers".)
MODERATOR NOTE
Archived posts from 2017 may be read here.
Posts prior to 2016 may be read here: ARCHIVE: SWU / VIP / eVIP Systemwide Upgrade questions
NOTE: This thread is for the discussion of the mechanics of AA systemwide upgrades. For "chance of upgrade clearing" questions, please use this thread: 2015 Chances of Upgrade Clearing and Upgrade Availability Discussion (consolidated)
Please note there is a separate thread discussing lost / missing/ misappropriated SWUs:
Missing / someone else used / unauthorized use my SWU / VIP / eVIP (merged)
American AAdvantage Forum Moderator Team
FAQ: Internal IT changes eliminate 90+% of post-expiry SWU use 26 Jun 2014
Q. I've been able to encumber expiring SWU past their expiration date if I find the proper upgrade inventory available prior to that date. Is this feature still available to Executive Platinum members?
A. Not for most. The option was possible due to software limitations. New software, AAcoRN, put into place 26 June 2014, will prevent this from occurring for "unqualified" members; only "qualified" members will be allowed to encumber SWU past their expiry date in the future. (See post #1)
Q. How do I know if I am a "qualified" member?
A. You can try to call and encumber expiring SWU past their expiry. If you are not allowed to, you aren't.
Q. So, exactly who does AA consider "qualified"?
A. A very high value AAdvantage member, as measured by the internal "Helix" system, which assigns an "Eagles" ranking from 1 to 5 (the more, the better).
Q. I've never heard of this. When did it start?
A. AA's rating system was originally based on three colors, green, yellow and red, which changed to 1-3 Eagles and was later expanded to 1-5 Eagles.
Q. How are Eagles scores assigned? Are they static, or do they change?
A. It has been said spend and fare classes (think lots of annual travel in fare classes of D and above) may affect your Eagles score, as well as OSO and negative incidents you have experienced that might result in your moving your custom to another airline. It is also said your Helix score is updated periodically, perhaps even nightly.
Q. How can I find out my Helix score / how many Eagles I have?
A. You can't. AA employees are not empowered to discuss the Helix system with customers. If you normally get extra SWU once you've made EP, are allowed to extend SWU use and find EP desk agents are willing to bend rules for you often, speculative, you might have 4-5 Eagles rating.
Q. So, this is a hidden tier higher than Executive Platinum?
A. No, because it doesn't give you privileges beyond EP beyond those mentioned, e.g. courtesy Club membership or additional priority for boarding or upgrades, like Concierge Key may.
Q. Do others than Executive Platinum have Helix / Eagles scores?
A. It can be safely assumed all AAdvantage members have such scores.
FAQ: What's a Systemwide Upgrade / SWU / VIP and how to use? (Master thread)
Jan 25, 2024, 1:25 pm
#2822
Join Date: May 2014
Location: DFW
Posts: 96
Checking the nonstop option will limit the search to one segment flights. However, as you likely have found out by now there is no C space on any direct flights from DFW to CDG in the "high" season (which I define as May through September). You should separately search JFK-CDG, ORD-CDG, PHL-CDG as well to see if you can find some C-Space. Still low chance but better than DFW-CDG.
Jan 27, 2024, 2:59 am
#2823
Join Date: Apr 2023
Location: AMS, FRA
Programs: United 1K, FlyingBlue Platinum, Qatar Gold
Posts: 12
Denied sponsored SWU on AA71, FRA-DFW
Second time I've been sponsored by a friend using a SWU on AA71 FRA-DFW, however this time I was waitlisted as it was not confirmed upon requesting.
At the CI desk I asked to confirm if I was on the list, agent told me yes I am and at Nr. 1 with 1 available seat. Flash forward to the gate after boarding has started I inquire again, I'm being told there are no seats available. I show the agent the waitlist in the AA app which shows me at Nr. 1 with 1 seat still being available. Agent directs me to the flight manager's desk.
I'm asked if I have an AAdvantage number as currently my QR number is attached to the ticket, apparently they can't process my upgrade while that number is in. I give the agent my AAdvantage number (regular member, with around 30k award miles), I'm being told I have no SWUs or miles in my account. I explain that I have been sponsored by an Exec Plat friend of mine, and that I've done this before. The agent then proceeds to tell me that I should've never been added to the waitlist, as sponsoring SWUs is not allowed, unless the sponsor is travelling with me on the same flight.
Any intent to explain that I've done this before, but without waitlist, are being ignored. They simply said it's not allowed and they can't process my request. Apparently they even called AAdvantage to ask, and they confirmed that sponsoring SWUs is not allowed. I board and take my economy seat, boarding completes and doors close, I still see myself at nr. 1 on the list with 1 available seat.
Needless to say this was quite a frustrating experience. I never expect an upgrade to clear, yet seeing the list and 1 seat available after boarding has completed is pretty annoying.
I can't find any terms on AA's website prohibiting the sponsoring of SWUs, and this forum appears to confirm as well that it is possible. I'm contemplating on writing a complaint and asking to have the rules clarified.
Have other people on here run into similar problems before? I'd appreciate any input, TIA!
At the CI desk I asked to confirm if I was on the list, agent told me yes I am and at Nr. 1 with 1 available seat. Flash forward to the gate after boarding has started I inquire again, I'm being told there are no seats available. I show the agent the waitlist in the AA app which shows me at Nr. 1 with 1 seat still being available. Agent directs me to the flight manager's desk.
I'm asked if I have an AAdvantage number as currently my QR number is attached to the ticket, apparently they can't process my upgrade while that number is in. I give the agent my AAdvantage number (regular member, with around 30k award miles), I'm being told I have no SWUs or miles in my account. I explain that I have been sponsored by an Exec Plat friend of mine, and that I've done this before. The agent then proceeds to tell me that I should've never been added to the waitlist, as sponsoring SWUs is not allowed, unless the sponsor is travelling with me on the same flight.
Any intent to explain that I've done this before, but without waitlist, are being ignored. They simply said it's not allowed and they can't process my request. Apparently they even called AAdvantage to ask, and they confirmed that sponsoring SWUs is not allowed. I board and take my economy seat, boarding completes and doors close, I still see myself at nr. 1 on the list with 1 available seat.
Needless to say this was quite a frustrating experience. I never expect an upgrade to clear, yet seeing the list and 1 seat available after boarding has completed is pretty annoying.
I can't find any terms on AA's website prohibiting the sponsoring of SWUs, and this forum appears to confirm as well that it is possible. I'm contemplating on writing a complaint and asking to have the rules clarified.
Have other people on here run into similar problems before? I'd appreciate any input, TIA!
Jan 27, 2024, 5:50 am
#2824
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: RDU <|> MMX
Programs: AA EXP 2MM, SK EBS
Posts: 12,778
Second time I've been sponsored by a friend using a SWU on AA71 FRA-DFW, however this time I was waitlisted as it was not confirmed upon requesting.
At the CI desk I asked to confirm if I was on the list, agent told me yes I am and at Nr. 1 with 1 available seat. Flash forward to the gate after boarding has started I inquire again, I'm being told there are no seats available. I show the agent the waitlist in the AA app which shows me at Nr. 1 with 1 seat still being available. Agent directs me to the flight manager's desk.
I'm asked if I have an AAdvantage number as currently my QR number is attached to the ticket, apparently they can't process my upgrade while that number is in. I give the agent my AAdvantage number (regular member, with around 30k award miles), I'm being told I have no SWUs or miles in my account. I explain that I have been sponsored by an Exec Plat friend of mine, and that I've done this before. The agent then proceeds to tell me that I should've never been added to the waitlist, as sponsoring SWUs is not allowed, unless the sponsor is travelling with me on the same flight.
Any intent to explain that I've done this before, but without waitlist, are being ignored. They simply said it's not allowed and they can't process my request. Apparently they even called AAdvantage to ask, and they confirmed that sponsoring SWUs is not allowed. I board and take my economy seat, boarding completes and doors close, I still see myself at nr. 1 on the list with 1 available seat.
Needless to say this was quite a frustrating experience. I never expect an upgrade to clear, yet seeing the list and 1 seat available after boarding has completed is pretty annoying.
I can't find any terms on AA's website prohibiting the sponsoring of SWUs, and this forum appears to confirm as well that it is possible. I'm contemplating on writing a complaint and asking to have the rules clarified.
Have other people on here run into similar problems before? I'd appreciate any input, TIA!
At the CI desk I asked to confirm if I was on the list, agent told me yes I am and at Nr. 1 with 1 available seat. Flash forward to the gate after boarding has started I inquire again, I'm being told there are no seats available. I show the agent the waitlist in the AA app which shows me at Nr. 1 with 1 seat still being available. Agent directs me to the flight manager's desk.
I'm asked if I have an AAdvantage number as currently my QR number is attached to the ticket, apparently they can't process my upgrade while that number is in. I give the agent my AAdvantage number (regular member, with around 30k award miles), I'm being told I have no SWUs or miles in my account. I explain that I have been sponsored by an Exec Plat friend of mine, and that I've done this before. The agent then proceeds to tell me that I should've never been added to the waitlist, as sponsoring SWUs is not allowed, unless the sponsor is travelling with me on the same flight.
Any intent to explain that I've done this before, but without waitlist, are being ignored. They simply said it's not allowed and they can't process my request. Apparently they even called AAdvantage to ask, and they confirmed that sponsoring SWUs is not allowed. I board and take my economy seat, boarding completes and doors close, I still see myself at nr. 1 on the list with 1 available seat.
Needless to say this was quite a frustrating experience. I never expect an upgrade to clear, yet seeing the list and 1 seat available after boarding has completed is pretty annoying.
I can't find any terms on AA's website prohibiting the sponsoring of SWUs, and this forum appears to confirm as well that it is possible. I'm contemplating on writing a complaint and asking to have the rules clarified.
Have other people on here run into similar problems before? I'd appreciate any input, TIA!
Unfortunately since you were departing FRA this is just a case of poorly trained contract agents at a foreign outstation not knowing the rules and how to process things. At the gate once boarding has begun there's really nothing you can do either.
You could try calling AA yourself but there's no telling what kind of agent you'd get at 2-3am US time and whether they too would even have a clue what was going on.
Definitely send a complaint to AA, and I'd have your EXP friend send one too. There's nothing more frustrating than having upgrade space available but missing it due to pure employee negligence.
Jan 27, 2024, 10:18 am
#2825
Join Date: Aug 2021
Location: USA
Programs: American Airlines (Executive Platinum), Hyatt (Globalist), Hilton (Diamond), IHG (Diamond)
Posts: 2,942
Second time I've been sponsored by a friend using a SWU on AA71 FRA-DFW, however this time I was waitlisted as it was not confirmed upon requesting.
At the CI desk I asked to confirm if I was on the list, agent told me yes I am and at Nr. 1 with 1 available seat. Flash forward to the gate after boarding has started I inquire again, I'm being told there are no seats available. I show the agent the waitlist in the AA app which shows me at Nr. 1 with 1 seat still being available. Agent directs me to the flight manager's desk.
I'm asked if I have an AAdvantage number as currently my QR number is attached to the ticket, apparently they can't process my upgrade while that number is in. I give the agent my AAdvantage number (regular member, with around 30k award miles), I'm being told I have no SWUs or miles in my account. I explain that I have been sponsored by an Exec Plat friend of mine, and that I've done this before. The agent then proceeds to tell me that I should've never been added to the waitlist, as sponsoring SWUs is not allowed, unless the sponsor is travelling with me on the same flight.
Any intent to explain that I've done this before, but without waitlist, are being ignored. They simply said it's not allowed and they can't process my request. Apparently they even called AAdvantage to ask, and they confirmed that sponsoring SWUs is not allowed. I board and take my economy seat, boarding completes and doors close, I still see myself at nr. 1 on the list with 1 available seat.
Needless to say this was quite a frustrating experience. I never expect an upgrade to clear, yet seeing the list and 1 seat available after boarding has completed is pretty annoying.
I can't find any terms on AA's website prohibiting the sponsoring of SWUs, and this forum appears to confirm as well that it is possible. I'm contemplating on writing a complaint and asking to have the rules clarified.
Have other people on here run into similar problems before? I'd appreciate any input, TIA!
At the CI desk I asked to confirm if I was on the list, agent told me yes I am and at Nr. 1 with 1 available seat. Flash forward to the gate after boarding has started I inquire again, I'm being told there are no seats available. I show the agent the waitlist in the AA app which shows me at Nr. 1 with 1 seat still being available. Agent directs me to the flight manager's desk.
I'm asked if I have an AAdvantage number as currently my QR number is attached to the ticket, apparently they can't process my upgrade while that number is in. I give the agent my AAdvantage number (regular member, with around 30k award miles), I'm being told I have no SWUs or miles in my account. I explain that I have been sponsored by an Exec Plat friend of mine, and that I've done this before. The agent then proceeds to tell me that I should've never been added to the waitlist, as sponsoring SWUs is not allowed, unless the sponsor is travelling with me on the same flight.
Any intent to explain that I've done this before, but without waitlist, are being ignored. They simply said it's not allowed and they can't process my request. Apparently they even called AAdvantage to ask, and they confirmed that sponsoring SWUs is not allowed. I board and take my economy seat, boarding completes and doors close, I still see myself at nr. 1 on the list with 1 available seat.
Needless to say this was quite a frustrating experience. I never expect an upgrade to clear, yet seeing the list and 1 seat available after boarding has completed is pretty annoying.
I can't find any terms on AA's website prohibiting the sponsoring of SWUs, and this forum appears to confirm as well that it is possible. I'm contemplating on writing a complaint and asking to have the rules clarified.
Have other people on here run into similar problems before? I'd appreciate any input, TIA!
Are there any taxes due if an SWU clears out of FRA?
Jan 27, 2024, 4:05 pm
#2826
Join Date: Apr 2023
Location: AMS, FRA
Programs: United 1K, FlyingBlue Platinum, Qatar Gold
Posts: 12
No, that is complete BS, you can of course give SWU's to anyone you please, they do not need to be traveling with you.
Unfortunately since you were departing FRA this is just a case of poorly trained contract agents at a foreign outstation not knowing the rules and how to process things. At the gate once boarding has begun there's really nothing you can do either.
You could try calling AA yourself but there's no telling what kind of agent you'd get at 2-3am US time and whether they too would even have a clue what was going on.
Definitely send a complaint to AA, and I'd have your EXP friend send one too. There's nothing more frustrating than having upgrade space available but missing it due to pure employee negligence.
Unfortunately since you were departing FRA this is just a case of poorly trained contract agents at a foreign outstation not knowing the rules and how to process things. At the gate once boarding has begun there's really nothing you can do either.
You could try calling AA yourself but there's no telling what kind of agent you'd get at 2-3am US time and whether they too would even have a clue what was going on.
Definitely send a complaint to AA, and I'd have your EXP friend send one too. There's nothing more frustrating than having upgrade space available but missing it due to pure employee negligence.
Calling AA was my thought too but with a not so fully booked flight boarding was almost over after the back and forth with the agent that I didn't want to risk missing the flight trying to get ahold of someone in the US.
Will definitely write a complaint and ask my EXP friend to do so as well.
I'm also waitlisted right now for the return DFW-FRA in a few days, curious to see what the outcome will be when departing from a major hub.
Jan 27, 2024, 4:08 pm
#2827
Join Date: Apr 2023
Location: AMS, FRA
Programs: United 1K, FlyingBlue Platinum, Qatar Gold
Posts: 12
Was your QR number attached the whole time or did you switch it at some point after booking? I didn't think an SWU could be attached without an AA number. Seems weird that you appeared on the upgrade list but then ran into problems.
Are there any taxes due if an SWU clears out of FRA?
Are there any taxes due if an SWU clears out of FRA?
No additional taxes are due when upgrading from FRA, doing it all the time on UA using PlusPoints and the other time on AA no additional fees or taxes were required either.
Jan 31, 2024, 8:00 am
#2828
Join Date: Nov 2021
Location: LBB
Programs: AA EXP, Hyatt Explorist, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 48
I had just booked a basic economy ticket in which a systemwide upgrade from basic -> first was indicated as available on the website.
I called in to request the upgrade and the service desk rep told me that basic economy is never available to upgrade. I haven't ever booked an upgrade from basic economy before so I wasn't sure if I was right or what to argue. I mentioned that on their website I saw the green checks indicating an upgrade from basic to first was available and she then was rude and told me that she didn't care what I saw this was the policy of the company and not to bother with a complimentary upgrade either.
Is this something I should try calling back to talk with a different person or am I misunderstanding something? Thanks!
I called in to request the upgrade and the service desk rep told me that basic economy is never available to upgrade. I haven't ever booked an upgrade from basic economy before so I wasn't sure if I was right or what to argue. I mentioned that on their website I saw the green checks indicating an upgrade from basic to first was available and she then was rude and told me that she didn't care what I saw this was the policy of the company and not to bother with a complimentary upgrade either.
Is this something I should try calling back to talk with a different person or am I misunderstanding something? Thanks!
Jan 31, 2024, 8:10 am
#2829
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: PHL
Programs: AA EXP
Posts: 718
I had just booked a basic economy ticket in which a systemwide upgrade from basic -> first was indicated as available on the website.
I called in to request the upgrade and the service desk rep told me that basic economy is never available to upgrade. I haven't ever booked an upgrade from basic economy before so I wasn't sure if I was right or what to argue. I mentioned that on their website I saw the green checks indicating an upgrade from basic to first was available and she then was rude and told me that she didn't care what I saw this was the policy of the company and not to bother with a complimentary upgrade either.
Is this something I should try calling back to talk with a different person or am I misunderstanding something? Thanks!
I called in to request the upgrade and the service desk rep told me that basic economy is never available to upgrade. I haven't ever booked an upgrade from basic economy before so I wasn't sure if I was right or what to argue. I mentioned that on their website I saw the green checks indicating an upgrade from basic to first was available and she then was rude and told me that she didn't care what I saw this was the policy of the company and not to bother with a complimentary upgrade either.
Is this something I should try calling back to talk with a different person or am I misunderstanding something? Thanks!
Jan 31, 2024, 8:20 am
#2830
Join Date: Nov 2021
Location: LBB
Programs: AA EXP, Hyatt Explorist, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 48
Thanks. I called back and was afraid I'd get the same person haha. But I got someone different who knew what they were doing and everything was processed within 5 minutes. Success!
Jan 31, 2024, 9:13 am
#2831
Join Date: May 2015
Location: WAS, SZX, HKG
Programs: AS MVP Gold 75K, CX Green
Posts: 752
Second time I've been sponsored by a friend using a SWU on AA71 FRA-DFW, however this time I was waitlisted as it was not confirmed upon requesting.
At the CI desk I asked to confirm if I was on the list, agent told me yes I am and at Nr. 1 with 1 available seat. Flash forward to the gate after boarding has started I inquire again, I'm being told there are no seats available. I show the agent the waitlist in the AA app which shows me at Nr. 1 with 1 seat still being available. Agent directs me to the flight manager's desk.
I'm asked if I have an AAdvantage number as currently my QR number is attached to the ticket, apparently they can't process my upgrade while that number is in. I give the agent my AAdvantage number (regular member, with around 30k award miles), I'm being told I have no SWUs or miles in my account. I explain that I have been sponsored by an Exec Plat friend of mine, and that I've done this before. The agent then proceeds to tell me that I should've never been added to the waitlist, as sponsoring SWUs is not allowed, unless the sponsor is travelling with me on the same flight.
Any intent to explain that I've done this before, but without waitlist, are being ignored. They simply said it's not allowed and they can't process my request. Apparently they even called AAdvantage to ask, and they confirmed that sponsoring SWUs is not allowed. I board and take my economy seat, boarding completes and doors close, I still see myself at nr. 1 on the list with 1 available seat.
Needless to say this was quite a frustrating experience. I never expect an upgrade to clear, yet seeing the list and 1 seat available after boarding has completed is pretty annoying.
I can't find any terms on AA's website prohibiting the sponsoring of SWUs, and this forum appears to confirm as well that it is possible. I'm contemplating on writing a complaint and asking to have the rules clarified.
Have other people on here run into similar problems before? I'd appreciate any input, TIA!
At the CI desk I asked to confirm if I was on the list, agent told me yes I am and at Nr. 1 with 1 available seat. Flash forward to the gate after boarding has started I inquire again, I'm being told there are no seats available. I show the agent the waitlist in the AA app which shows me at Nr. 1 with 1 seat still being available. Agent directs me to the flight manager's desk.
I'm asked if I have an AAdvantage number as currently my QR number is attached to the ticket, apparently they can't process my upgrade while that number is in. I give the agent my AAdvantage number (regular member, with around 30k award miles), I'm being told I have no SWUs or miles in my account. I explain that I have been sponsored by an Exec Plat friend of mine, and that I've done this before. The agent then proceeds to tell me that I should've never been added to the waitlist, as sponsoring SWUs is not allowed, unless the sponsor is travelling with me on the same flight.
Any intent to explain that I've done this before, but without waitlist, are being ignored. They simply said it's not allowed and they can't process my request. Apparently they even called AAdvantage to ask, and they confirmed that sponsoring SWUs is not allowed. I board and take my economy seat, boarding completes and doors close, I still see myself at nr. 1 on the list with 1 available seat.
Needless to say this was quite a frustrating experience. I never expect an upgrade to clear, yet seeing the list and 1 seat available after boarding has completed is pretty annoying.
I can't find any terms on AA's website prohibiting the sponsoring of SWUs, and this forum appears to confirm as well that it is possible. I'm contemplating on writing a complaint and asking to have the rules clarified.
Have other people on here run into similar problems before? I'd appreciate any input, TIA!
Jan 31, 2024, 11:05 am
#2832
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: Miami, Florida
Programs: AAdvantage
Posts: 54
I have a wedding in Rome in October and want to take advantage of my SWU's. No direct flights so need to connect. Which city and aircraft would you recommend? Better odds of SWU clearing? Prices are similar. I am EXP 400ish LP's. Options below:
CLT - FCO 772-Boeing 777
JFK- FCO 77W-Boeing 777
PHL - FCO 788-Boeing 787
ORD - FCO 788-Boeing 787
DFW - FCO 789-Boeing 787
Thanks!
CLT - FCO 772-Boeing 777
JFK- FCO 77W-Boeing 777
PHL - FCO 788-Boeing 787
ORD - FCO 788-Boeing 787
DFW - FCO 789-Boeing 787
Thanks!
Jan 31, 2024, 2:49 pm
#2833
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: RDU <|> MMX
Programs: AA EXP 2MM, SK EBS
Posts: 12,778
I have a wedding in Rome in October and want to take advantage of my SWU's. No direct flights so need to connect. Which city and aircraft would you recommend? Better odds of SWU clearing? Prices are similar. I am EXP 400ish LP's. Options below:
CLT - FCO 772-Boeing 777
JFK- FCO 77W-Boeing 777
PHL - FCO 788-Boeing 787
ORD - FCO 788-Boeing 787
DFW - FCO 789-Boeing 787
Thanks!
CLT - FCO 772-Boeing 777
JFK- FCO 77W-Boeing 777
PHL - FCO 788-Boeing 787
ORD - FCO 788-Boeing 787
DFW - FCO 789-Boeing 787
Thanks!
What day are you flying on? All else being equal I would avoid the 788 flights (smallest J cabin) and probably lean towards JFK if it is in fact going to be operated by a 77W (largest J cabin, most competition on the route).
Also for your best odds don't forget about just connecting through LHR to FCO.
If you really want the upgrade you're going to have to be flexible, can book whatever now if you really need to then switch later as availability becomes more clear.
Jan 31, 2024, 2:52 pm
#2834
Join Date: Oct 2021
Location: PHL/LAX
Programs: American Airlines Executive Platinum, AmEx Membership Rewards
Posts: 922
I have a wedding in Rome in October and want to take advantage of my SWU's. No direct flights so need to connect. Which city and aircraft would you recommend? Better odds of SWU clearing? Prices are similar. I am EXP 400ish LP's. Options below:
CLT - FCO 772-Boeing 777
JFK- FCO 77W-Boeing 777
PHL - FCO 788-Boeing 787
ORD - FCO 788-Boeing 787
DFW - FCO 789-Boeing 787
Thanks!
CLT - FCO 772-Boeing 777
JFK- FCO 77W-Boeing 777
PHL - FCO 788-Boeing 787
ORD - FCO 788-Boeing 787
DFW - FCO 789-Boeing 787
Thanks!