Weird Installer problem

[yafflehk]

I'm trying to upgrade my 2020 m1 MacBook Air from Ventura to Sonoma. I have enough disk space. I've downloaded the latest installer package from apple (I spent some time failing with software update and the App Store and got fed up with waiting for a fresh download every time I tried). However, when I launch the "Install macOS Sonoma app" it launches, immediately quits, and deletes itself. I've tried safe mode etc with no change. What could be the problem?

 

[Fishrrman]

OP:

If you have a 32gb USB flashdrive, you could try making a bootable installer, then boot from the flashdrive and try to upgrade that way.

TIP for making the installer:
Download "Mist". It's free:

Release 0.10 · ninxsoft/Mist

Mist now ships logs to the unified logging system! You can view the Mist Log window via the: ⌘ + L keyboard shortcut Mist > Window app menu Show Mist Log toolbar button Logs can also be monitor...

github.com

(you want the "dmg" file)

Mist will download the OS installer AND create the bootable flashdrive, all in one integrated process. Be aware that once you turn it loose, it takes a little while to complete, so just be patient.

Then, boot to startup options (power off, then hold down power on button continuously until "loading startup options" appears).
Select the flashdrive and see if you can boot from it.