Originally Posted by Bigft64

I can confirm that buying an AA giftcard works. I bought a $150 GC and was credited back the $150 a few days later when the statement closed. Even better, I got 300 miles from the transaction due to double miles for AA purchases! Going the GC route is a great option if you have no plans on buying an AA ticket within the next year. The statement credit is only good for 12 months but the GC doesn't expire. The only noteworthy limitations for the GC (as printed on mine) are you can't use it towards Admiral's club passes or towards ticket upgrades.