We've had our August ORD-NRT-ORD F redemptions moved by 2h and 9 hours. The way back was actually advantageous and we are now able to depart from HND instead of NRT and also leave 5h earlier. I was able to change on the JAL app and then call AA to reissue.

The issue I'm having is ORD-NRT has been downgraded to a 788 and we're now in the bulkhead center seats in J. The JAL app is allowing me the same option to switch to the later flight in F on the 777, but that arrives in Tokyo at 5:30pm vs 1:15pm. If I chat/call JAL will they allow me a one stop routing thru Dallas to then be able to try the A350 First class? I'd want to fly the night before and overnight in Dallas if that matters.

Most likely I'll probably just downgrade and take the nonstop just to cut out the chance of mis-connecting. Even if AA offered to open up space on their metal in F not sure it's worth it if I have to connect I'm assuming AA will refund the difference of the 80k F awards and 60k J awards? I would think they would but I could also see that being a HUCA situation