Thanks all.
I finally get it: it is done by a little rule bending on the part of the airlines and a lot of sweet talking on our part, with a pinch of common sense thrown in. Like everything, I suppose.
Originally Posted by JohnAx
Bottom line, I'm pretty sure it will never be an issue, or will be easily handled by asking for a later deadline.
You are right. I called AA and asked nicely for a late date; was told yes, no problem (just as you say), they will put in a date as late as I want. But, the agent also warned me that 'the system' constantly checks passenger loads and if the flight becomes heavily booked a "robot" (her term) will automatically override any such 'generous' late date and will demand ticketing, or else. Fair enough, I will get ready to sweet talk the robot when and if the time comes; just hope it's a spanish-speaking-she-robot.
Update: I made a reservation this morning with AA MAD for a OWE starting January 4, 2005, and didn't say a word about ticketing date, nor was there any mention about "robots" this time by the agent Two minutes after making the reservation I checked aa.com and the itin is right there; status is:
ON HOLD - Purchase By:
01/04/2005 03:25 PM CET
The 'system' has automatically given me until one hour before the first flight to purchase the ticket. Not bad at all. ^