Originally Posted by
VegasGambler
They will probably be very flexible about putting you on AA metal (if possible) but partner flights will require award space. They may work with the partner to try to get that space opened but they can't force it.
I am fine with AA metal - would actually prefer it as the routings are better anyway; the only reason I booked an award with the AS leg was it was loads cheaper. I just wanted to make sure that starting on partner metal wouldn't preclude me from the usual level of flexibility.