American Airlines to end free business-class upgrades for elites on some long domestic routes

American Airlines will stop giving elite frequent flyers complimentary upgrades from coach to business class on several long-haul domestic routes, starting August 25. On those flights, elite members will be placed on the upgrade list for premium economy instead.

Routes affected include New York's JFK to Los Angeles, Boston to San Francisco, Dallas/Fort Worth to Honolulu, Kona and Maui, Phoenix to Honolulu, and Chicago O'Hare to Honolulu and Maui. Elites who buy a premium economy ticket or pay for an upgrade after buying coach are still eligible for the business upgrade, American said. The airline added that seating preferences will be accommodated when possible, though some premium economy rows include middle seats. The change is part of a broader airline trend toward giving fewer premium seats away.