So, I would need an expert flyer account to verify this?
If not, an agent could simply tell me whatever they want?
Don't most people with this benefit simply say , "ok, it's bookable in Revenue on the ac site , it should be available to me as an SE then on points"
No, EF doesn't give you loads.
You need a friendly employee* to give you that information.
For the record, the flight is wide open in J, but as was speculated, there's no availability in Y.
If you want to buy a Y fare, they'll sell it to you, and some people will get an opup.
IKK requires positive space, which there is not.
I don't know what most people with the benefit say, but if that's what they say, they'd be wrong.
*Basically anyone with access to a terminal. Aeroplan call center agents, AC call center agents, anyone who works at the airport, etc. I'm sure if you call Aeroplan, they'll tell you something like "it's booked 186 of 184" if you ask nicely.