I suppose the verbiage:
"As always, your AAdvantageŽ elite status provides you with special benefits you will continue to enjoy each time you travel with us. In addition, you also have the flexibility to choose what matters to you most with our new travel options:
No Change Fee
An Extra Checked Bag
Same Day Confirmed Flight Change
Additional AAdvantageŽ Miles And More
"
doesn't really say the "No Change Fee" is for elites, only that as elites you have benefits, but then, now you can add these "travel options." Oh well.