I had some miles that I previously accidentally credited to AA, so I booked an AAvacation package trip (hotel+flight), partially paying for it with those miles.

Now usually I have any miles credited to my Japan Airlines account (Crystal=OW Ruby), so I figured I'd change it at check-in, and hopefully get some MCE seats.

The check-in agent told me it was done,but at that point I had forgotten to ask to be moved to MCE. So no biggie, I decided to ask at the gate.

The gate agent told me my status was insufficient for an upgrade, which is weird because the MCE seats open up for Ruby members 24 hours before check-in - and all the exit seats and bulkhead seats were still available @ the self-service kiosks.

Now I'm stuck in a middle seat, boarding on group 8. Fingers crossed that I won't have to check ny carry-on...

Is this because the trip was partially paid for with AAdvantage miles? Or is it some error on the agent's side?

I'm asking because I'd prefer not to be in this predicament on my return leg. Any insights would be appreciated!