# Travel >> Transportation >> Air Travel

How to Upgrade to First Class on American Airlines International

An economy class ticket provides you with the lowest price, but flying in business or first class gives you a more comfortable flight. American Airlines business class seating offers you more leg room, a newly designed seat with adjustment controls that includes a "lie flat" option, cotton duvet and noise-cancelling headphones. Depending on whether your flight is domestic or international, your first class experience may include an adjustable swivel seat which reclines to become a six and a half foot bed; luxury duvet; amenity kit including an eye mask, socks, lotion and mints; and a personal in-seat entertainment system.

An economy class ticket for an American Airlines flight
Internet access

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase your upgrade online by opening your web browser and going to AA.com. Go to "AAdvantage" in the menu on the left side of the page. Click on "Buy Upgrades." You will be prompted to enter your American Airlines frequent flyer number and password, or to sign up for the mileage program if you are not already a member. For flights with two classes of service, you may choose to upgrade to business class; for three classes of service, you may upgrade to first class. The purchase price per 500 miles is $30 using the online system.
- 2
  Upgrade your ticket on the day of your flight at the self-service check-in. As you use the airport kiosk, you will be asked if you would like to upgrade, pending available seats. As with upgrading online, you have the option of upgrading to business or first class, depending on seat availability, and will be charged $30 per 500 miles of your flight.
- 3
  Call American Airlines reservations at 800-882-8880 to upgrade your ticket with a reservations specialist. Provide the specialist with your ticket details and your upgrade request. If available, business class or first class upgrades cost $35 per 500 miles using this method.
- 4
  Upgrade your ticket at the airport ticket counter at check-in. Request an upgrade from the ticketing specialist at the check-in counter or Admirals Club lounges for members. Upgrading using this method costs $35 per 500 miles.