Originally Posted by
Austinrunner
There are official published numbers for 2011 and 2010. But there are no official published numbers for 2012. You're choosing to make factual assertions (repeatedly and in many different threads) that aren't based on reliable data. Equally problematic, you are assuming based on your award availability searches in limited markets and for limited time periods that AA suddenly worsened its overall policy about what AA considers to be one of its most valuable assets (per its annual report). Why would AA do that, especially given that AA does not believe that award redemption causes any decrease in revenue passengers, i.e., award passengers do not crowd out revenue passengers (per its annual report)?
The mere fact that you cannot find award availability today on the flights you want on the days you want does not warrant a broad-brushed claim about award availability in all markets on all flights throughout the award booking calendar.
Again, I recognize your expertise on these boards.
But with all humility, after having redeemed over 3 MM in AA awards between the two of us, I too speak with some authority and experience. I am not speaking of inability to get awards on just a few days or just a few routes. There simply were no 2 awards GIG to USA on ANY day in 2013 from Jan 1 till presently bookable date; I challenge you to find me 2 saaver awards in J on the same flight from SFO to LHR on AA metal (on any day/any routing 2013). Above I outlined some of domestic award problems.
There are more dates and routes that I have had no success this year, but I think you get the idea that I am not speaking of just a couple days or routes.
Also, you will agree that I am not the only one that feels that way THIS year - this thread is full of such observations.
By the way of comparison, I booked 2 J awards GIG to SFO with UA on the exact date I wanted without any problem. I also see LOTS of J availability SFO to LHR on both daily non-stop UA flights from SFO as well as and many connecting flights. It makes it very hard to stick with AA in face of this.
As far as being flexible, I know I have to be and I am willing to be flexible, but not infinitely so. My trips are planned (such as cruises) - I am willing to fly several days before or return several days after the cruise, but a random award on a day 3 month away from my required date really does me no good.