Some of the blogs are reporting that AA will not be doing soft landings for elites who do not requalify for their current tier this year. Looks like they're doing what they can to thin down their bloated elite ranks before the merger.
Email from AA, as reported by One Mile at a Time:
Can you believe we’re almost halfway through 2013? Hopefully you’re on track to achieve your goal of elite status qualification for 2014. To check how many elite qualifying points, miles and segments you’ve earned thus far, simply log in to your account.
Previously, based on your prior year status, you benefited from an exception to receive a higher level of elite status than you actually earned. Next year, regardless of your current status, your elite status for the next membership year will be based on your elite qualifying activity in 2013.
We invite you to achieve the highest level you can to earn the greatest benefits. You can also find details about qualifying for elite status here.