Thanks, Prncess -- you sound like the same kind of planner as me! It's helpful to know that there is another option should we miss our connection.

I'm leaning toward AA just for the extra legroom -- it will be a long day, and a bit more space is a huge plus. If they offered seatback movies, that would clinch the deal. Guess I'm spoiled by too many transatlantic flights with BA's nice movie/audio system, even in the back of the bus...