My daughter is flying LAX-LHR and back CDG-JFK-LAX in July. She has no status on AA so I have been trying to look for C inventory so I can upgrade her with miles + co-pay. The outbound flight does not have any inventory right now, but I will put her in for the upgrade on that. My question is on the inbound flight as it does not have any inventory on the CDG-JFK leg, but does have C inventory in the JFK-LAX leg. I fly that route often and the A32 business class is a nice product (although the 777-300 business class = A32 first class) and would like to get that segment confirmed if possible.

Is it possible to upgrade just the domestic leg and if so would it be just the standard miles + copay (i.e. 15,000 + $75)? If so, can I still put in for the entire leg and just pay the difference if it clears (25,000 + $350 less the 15,000 + $75 = 10,000 + $275)? What I want to avoid is paying both miles + copay, but not sure what else to do in an effort to confirm as much as possible right now.

I fly the LAX-LHR-LAX route every couple months and as a PLT have had pretty good luck with upgrades. That said, I usually target specific times (e.g. leave Saturday night rather than Sunday) when fewer EXP are flying.

I will call AA to inquire, but am hoping to have some suggestions so I know if this is possible and if not what anyone else will suggest. Thanks in advance.