Thanks christep - that does make sense in a way.

I instructed my TA to challenge them and quote star file - they now agree and are holding reservation to be ticketed by 7 dyas before travel.

New one AA threw into the mix they had priced it (approx $8490). They are now saying that pricing may change due to fluctuating exchange rates. Exchange rates to what?? this is based on the published US$ fare ex-US. At most some taxes may be in another currency, but fluctuating exchange rates are going to so minimally affect the taxes that it is insignificant? What are they talking about?