Yes, your logic makes sense. I was simply comparing using the 15K upgrade vs. using 100K to buy 16 upgrades. The former is a better option, but both aren't the most efficient use of miles. Why is that? Because AA wants to make buying upgrades with $$ the most favorable option so more $$ rolls into the coffers!! Also remember that the most efficient use of miles may not suit the guy; maybe he just flies transcon and doesn't have any desire to see Europe/Asia.
<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by RS:
Doesn't it depend on what you use the miles for? I use 125K miles for First class to Europe. This is about a $10,000 ticket. This is approx 8 trips of the 15K upgrades but also 8 x 6 stickers or 48 stickers. 48 stickers cost $1,500. Don't you get the Europe RT for $1,500 then? Doesn't saving the miles for this most expensive award make sense - assuming you want to take these first class trips to Europe or Asia?</font>