I live in Phoenix and have to travel to Santiago Chile.

Essentially, 3 choices:

1. AA to DFW, AA to SCL
2. anything to LAX, LAN to Lima/SCL
3. anything to LAX, COPA to Panama City/SCL

Yes, it seems that AA is a no brainer, but I don't like flying AA (used them the last time I went to SCL).

As a GOLD, are upgrades available on COPA? Are the seats in coach any better/worse than LAN or AA?

I am probably going to have an upgradeable coach ticket. Can I use CO miles to upgrade on COPA?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!!!!!!!!