Originally Posted by VegasGambler

A couple of ideas...

Is it possible for AA to "take over" the ticket like they can with a ticket issued by a travel agent (they charge $50 for this, waived for EXP). If so, can they just take it over and reissue it?

If not, you can always just book a backup flight (possibly the same flight -- the names are different so there is no chance that AA cancels one as a duplicate). Then just OLCI for the award ticket (the fewer eyes on it the better), get to the airport a little early, and see if you can get through TSA with the award ticket BP. Probably you can. If you get through cancel the backup. If not, cancel the award and OLCI the backup. No change fees these days so you will get full credit for the cancelled ticket.

If you want to be really sneaky (not sure how legal this is so do it at your own risk) OLCI both, get through TSA with the backup ticket (in the right name), cancel it, and board with the BP for the award ticket.