Originally Posted by
BenjaminNYC
AA doesn't offer upgrade for cash from award coach? UA does do this, if all upgrades for those using instruments are confirmed.
Yes, such an option exists for award tickets on AA. As noted on aa.com:
Q: As an AAdvantage elite member traveling on an award ticket, can I use the Confirmed Upgrade option and how much will I pay?
A: If the Confirmed Upgrade option is available on a flight for which you are using an AAdvantage award ticket, then it will be offered when you check in using the Self-Service machine. The cost to upgrade is $45 per 500 miles.
However,
Q: On what flights is the Confirmed Upgrade option offered?
A: Passengers traveling on flights within the 48 contiguous United States, U.S. Virgin Islands, or Puerto Rico can purchase an upgrade, even if they are traveling on AAdvantage award tickets. The upgrade is available on a space-available basis on your day of travel.