Originally Posted by
reeg2
I think your error is likely going to be not contacting AA prior to departure, if that's indeed what happened. For me, they're always a lot more flexible prior to departure rather than post-departure.
I don't think it's clear whether or not OP canceled the reservation prior to departure. I suspect he did, but then wants to seek the refund by virtue of the plane being several hours late upon arrival.
I guess the existential question is -- is a plane late if you're not on it?