Originally Posted by
Often1
Much ado about nothing.
A plain reading of the clear language is that you must have the key. If they are needed, you must produce them, open the container and relock it.
Don't even bother changing the wording on the form. You will just be asked to fill out a clean new form before your bag is accepted. Also, don't expect AA agents to provide written legal advice to you. Not happening and remember, you are standing there with the bag until AA accepts it.
The hand off of the key typically happens with TSA, after AA has accepted the bag. I've never had AA ask for the key, just TSA.