Originally Posted by MIKEM
Correct me if I'm wrong, but AA does not have a SWU equivalent. The SWU allows you to be upgraded at time of booking and you can choose your seat at time of booking. The AA EXP must wait to see if he/she is upgraded.
Not correct.
Both upgrades are capacity-controlled. SWU's allow you to be upgraded provided an upgradeable seat is available, as do VIP's. If the seat is available, you can confirm the upgrade and choose your seat.
AA gives its EXP 8 VIP's - UA gives 6.
VIP's can be used on almost any fare - SWU's have to be ticketed in W or higher.