richardd, IMO, the 767-223ER has a slightly more comfortable J cabin - 2 - 2- 2 seating vs. 2 - 3 - 2, a bit more recline and pitch too, I think. I've taken a number of 777 and 763 US - Europe AA flights the last few years, and IMO it's easier to upgrade on the BRU flights as well. Good connections, plus a stop for dinner in Rue des Bouchers is nice

What about the ORD - FRA 767 nonstop flight? Might be easier to do the US connection than the European connection on another airline, and IMO the flight departs and arrives at decent times. AC in FRA is landside, and has showers, too. (Shared club in BRU is airside, no arrivals lounge.)