Straing. We have used AA miles for FC for over 10+ years with no problems. Sometimes the itinerary isn't ideal but never been without. We usually purches one way and use miles for the return or visa versa. Last year we used miles both coming and going for FC with Saturday arrival an return. We usually book 10-11 months out so that might be the key. This coming May we purchased going and are returning with miles again in FC.