American Airlines simplifies systemwide upgrade redemptions for frequent flyers

Members with available SWUs can now confirm or waitlist their use instantly via aa.com or the mobile app. Onscreen prompts will guide users through optimal redemption options.

The ability to redeem miles for upgrades with additional airline partners is expected later this year, according to the airline's website.

Systemwide upgrades allow passengers to upgrade most Business fares and economy or premium economy fares on American Airlines flights. For example, passengers can move from basic or premium economy directly up to business class, while business tickets can be upgraded to First Class.

The same upgrades can also be used on British Airways flights for transatlantic travel of up to three flight segments when there is at least one American-marketed flight involved.

Passengers must log into their AAdvantage account and ensure they have available SWUs before booking a flight on the airline's website. If an upgrade link is present during booking, then systemwide upgrades are available; otherwise, they are not offered for that flight.

If an upgrade isn't immediately available, American will place requests on a waitlist without deducting from a member's balance until confirmed. Passengers not upgraded by check-in will automatically join an airport standby list if they have enough SWUs in their account.