I don't know if my situation is typical; but I am a DFW-based EXP. I fly every week and book through my corporate travel agent's web site, our company policy is to buy the lowest priced nonstop (and the lowest priced seat on a plane); as a result my batting average commuting to SEA, PHX, LGA, and MCO this year has been 50% at best.
I don't blame AA for trying to earn more revenue, that's what companies are supposed to do. But don't be surprised if many of us avoid taking those extra segments and flights to requalify as the perks fall by the wayside.