Originally Posted by
carmy
You mean there're people who've got AA EXP without the four AA segments?
In the past it hasn't been heavily enforced, but I'm not aware of any examples from 2014 and later.
This thread might prove useful.
Originally Posted by
djday
Also, it is important to check which flights actually earn qualifying miles for each program.
Here is some info on CX credited to AA. There is the possibility of higher earnings by doing an AA codeshare, but likely at a higher ticket price.