I think this is being made out to be some conspiracy that AA is intentionally trying to nickel and dime when the reality is that it's a Sabre limitation that existed even before ancillary up charges. Even if you're elite, and no seats are available, you have to physically check in at the airport. It seems odd and even SHARES (which on the UA board is the cause of all the problems) would allow you to check in but get a seat request.