[ChrisH]

Make sure you submit a formal complaint to American, about this. This website isn't associated with American, so they may never hear of this, unless you contact them directly.

A side note; I realize it was frustrating that there were only 4 agents, and it does sound as though they were quite rude, and not helpful, but keep in mind it is not those agents responsiblity to make sure there are enough agents to help, in a situation like this. That should have been the supervisor, or manager. As a former airline agent, I can say that we frequently work understaffed, as the airlines do not properly staff these stations, in order to save money. I've been stuck at the gate, or ticket counter, with cancelled flights, full of passengers, and it was me, and only me to assist them, and there wasn't anything I could do about it. These managers get quarterly bonuses, if they save on man hours, and so frequently the stations are left understaffed, and overtime is not permitted, beyond a certain limit --- which was frustrating in situations like yours. It is bad being a passenger in that situation, but I can't explain how stressful that type of situation is from the other side (as an agent), as well. The airlines really need to make sure they have proper staffing.

On another note, it seems there is complaint, after complaint, day after day, on this website, about American Airlines. I think I will stear clear of them, next time I have to fly.