that simple? and don't i then need an interview or something?
also once the card is downgraded, do i keep the status?
GE? Yes.
Can I upgrade a Amex gold card, to a platinum, while currently having a platinum card open ?
Yes
Can I do this online, or over the phone ?
That simple. Yes, you need an interview after you are approved. (I thought tsa pre also needed one.)
TSA pre-check doesn't require an interview but you have to get finger printed. There are a lot more locations to get fingerprinted with an to get an interview for GE in my area and I'm in Southern California.
already signed up for GE. only location is in the airport.once approved, how long before i can use it?
IIRC, right away.
and how long does it take? can i go the day of a flight?
You're going to be flying and entering the country same day? Or asking for Pre-check?
To upgrade from good to plat. does the card need to be open for more then a year ?