Originally Posted by
TravellingChris
The other issue to think about is how this affects the Oneworld alliance. If AA's international connectivity is declining and their network is atrophying aside from a handful of high-profile destinations like Heathrow, doesn't that reduce their value to other alliance members? AA is supposed to be the U.S. anchor member for Oneworld. By contrast, both Delta and United provide good international connectivity, link up well with other members in their respective alliances and have better domestic networks than American.
As long as AA's domestic network isn't atrophying, OW alliance partners aren't going to complain. No one connects INTL-INTL through the USA unless they absolutely can't find another route. CBP makes it too difficult.