Originally Posted by
edgewood49
The issue I have with AA is their hubs are not as convenient as UA's in SFO.
As an AA passenger originating outside a hub, you'll be higher on the upgrade list, though right now comped domestic upgrades only come into play at the EXP/100K level. With UA comping you at Platinum/75K level, you'll get 75% bonus miles. At AA, Platinum/50K comes with 100% bonus miles.
I'd be curious how both UA and AA flyers in Portland are doing with domestic upgrades. Could be the reason to pick one over the other if the prices for instant upgrade fares are too high.