This is an old thread, but just did a search and found it mentioned here previously.

I got burned by this when I wanted to change the passenger name on an award booking. The policy is "no name change without full cancellation". I asked the agent whether she could immediately rebook the two seats in my and the alternate passenger's name, and she said no - she'd have to do the cancellation, but that the rebooking was the responsibility of the Sales Dept, but that she'd transfer me immediately after the cancellation.

Of course, I get transferred to the sales office, and they do *not* see the returned availability (although the Avios have now credited back to my account).

This is frustrating, and honestly, somewhat of a cheap shot by BA. In total, I'd spent many hours researching and booking these tickets 9-10 months ahead - then due to a pregnancy, one of the original passengers had to bow out.

Suddenly both tickets disappear and are no longer available for booking as an award?

Not a very nice customer experience at all.