I have noticed this with direct flights, they have BA with fees of $700 plus and 57k available. I booked connections in advance, hoping there is a schedule change so I can change my flight to a direct. This is ORD to LHR, i have seen a few seats go back to the 57k, mainly February when the demand must be lower. I just need to get my hands on Alaska points as they have the best redemptions on AA.