Yes, just because the company paid for your Radisson room, that does not mean you cannot claim the miles; the point of the loyalty programme is to get the high spend regular business traveller/stayer to frequent AAdvantage partners, ESPECIALLY when their company is paying.

So I suggest you contest the inactivity on the basis of the Radisson stay. Just say you gave you mileage card at check in but it didnt post the miles.

Then also say you are recently emplyed in a high power job and will be required to fly for work quite a bit considering American, but may take another airline if not able to use miles....

Also, apply for an AAdvantage Credit Card (for which you get bonus miles) and tell them about your upcoming trip/book a refundable ticket somewhere in J (Business) even if you intend cancelling it.

If you establish credibility with them, and intent to travel with AA, I am hopeful something could be worked out. But in strict terms, the three year timeframe is enforceable. Did you really not step on a plane for three whole years????

In future, log on to www.opinionplace.com to add miles every two weeks for filling in surveys.

Good luck - let us know how you get on. ^