Originally Posted by
satellite779
Yes, I canceled around 5.5hrs before the departure, when we heard the news.
IME if the award contains AA metal flights then the miles will be automatically reinstated, however if it's just partners then most times not.
I had 3 QR-only awards last month that I had to cancel and none of the miles were automatically reinstated.
As noted just give AA a call, the fact that you cancelled 5 hours before departure doesn't matter.