I have known for years that Avion tix do not ear Aeroplan points. I recently redeemed a quick leg from LGA on United (016) and didn't realize the flight was operated by AC - Gate agent added my Aeroplan number when I complained about not getting zone 2 and surprisingly got the mileage credit to my Aeroplan account (so I guess this workaround is good for code-share flights).

Going to Hawaii with the entire family next week. Booked with Avion online, 014 ticket, AC metal YYZ-SFO, UA metal SFO-KOA. Want to use Aeroplan at check-in at YYZ at least for the free bags and zone 2 boarding. Does anyone know the following:
- Would I earn points on UA if I used my Mileage Plus number on an Avion booking? I mean, Hawaii is quite far x4 pax...
- Could I change the FF number after check in to keep the free bag and Z2, or would that generate a new boarding pass? Alternatively, I am thinking of keeping the AC number for 1 pax and changing everyone else to UA MP.
- If I add my Aeroplan account on the return flight (all on UA, not codeshare), would I get AP points? Currently no UA status, just *A silver.

Any suggestions appreciated!