Maximise your Avios, air miles and hotel points

Forums Payment cards American Express Unable to upgrade from Amex BA Classic to Premium

  • 11 posts

    I’ve a few large spends coming up in December so… I was a bit perplexed when I phoned Amex today to upgrade my BA Classic card to the Premium version with the £250 annual fee only to be told it’s not possible because I’d previously downgraded from the Premium version (when I earned the companion voucher over 6 months ago).
    I checked with two agents, it’s definitely the case, they will not allow me to pay them the annual fee to upgrade my card.
    I’m not looking to change Amex’s policy, but it seems counter-intuitive to me. When you’re not seeking any upgrade Avios ‘welcome’ offer, just simply a higher earning rate, why would Amex not want the £250 fee? Now I’m putting my spend elsewhere so Amex have missed out on the annual fee and their cut of my spending.
    Interested in peoples’ thoughts.

    641 posts

    You could try upgrading online at https://www.americanexpress.com/uk/benefits/upgrade/ba-premium-plus-credit-card/

    Nothing to lose

    Although it is no surprise to see Amex finally clamping down on people gaming the system

    11,408 posts

    I think most people upgrade by just applying online, the CS agents don’t always know the ins and outs of Amex’s workings.
    You could just try it and see what happens, presumably you’ll get some sort of message that it isn’t possible if it can’t be done this way any more. This has always been a risk – and don’t forget there won’t be any more pro rate refunds from early next year (unless Amex flip flops again).
    Alternatively, do you have a Player 2 you can refer for the BAPP?

    *Edit, I think we just said the same thing, more or less …

    11 posts

    Thanks for the advice to apply online. Guess I’ve nothing to lose! No player 2 for the BAPP.

  • You must be logged in to reply to this topic.

The UK's biggest frequent flyer website uses cookies, which you can block via your browser settings. Continuing implies your consent to this policy. Our privacy policy is here.