Originally Posted by
ffay005
You can do this, but it might require an agent at the airport. First book the flight and add the upgrades. Then try to remove the AY number and save the AA number. You could try to do this on the RJ website if AY does not allow it. And if it still does not work, see an agent at the airport and explain what you want. And make sure you get a BP with the AA number printed on it.
Do note that you will lose status benefits such as extra bags or priority security. But you should get into the lounge though.
since upgrades move you to U class I wonder how well other FF programs read the original class? Never tried it