Originally Posted by Fly AA J all the way
I thought that usually EXP was the only status to be allowed PA access when in Y. IIRC, PLTs should use the J checkin in T3. I believe that at LHR, PA is really only intended for those actually traveling in premium cabins, the same way only those in F and J get to use Fast Track, and not PLT, EXP, etc.
I have used it as a OW SPH, not AA elite, travelling in mostly Y. The staff have always been friendly and helpful, I even got two op-ups over the years. The staff there seem to be under utilized (never seen more than one other person checking in there), which might explain their eagerness to help. I have checked in with non-status companions and not had any problems either.