Upgrade Processing
 

Why does American Airlines flat out lie when publishing information that they will process upgrades ahead of time? Platinum members are supposed to be processed 72 hours ahead of the flight and Gold members processed 24 hours before...never happens. If AA wants info... I have 10 flights this year. Am waiting at the airport. Boarding scheduled in 10 minutes and the gate attendant is just smiling at people and has not processed the upgrades.

The upgrade windows published by the airline are the earliest an upgrade will clear. It doesn't mean that you will automatically get an upgrade at that time. Most airlines wait until just before boarding to fill the last few seats with upgrades if they are still open. I've even been upgraded after already taking my seat in coach. A free upgrade is a perk of being an elite but is never guaranteed.