Re One World - good point. Flew to LAX from LHR for a USA holiday this summer, then went LAX to BOS on AA and then BOS to LHR. Picked up a fair few Avios points but have resolutely told myself that is the last time I'm doing a USA holiday via Heathrow - but that means giving up the chance to accrue points.
So AA would be most welcome news for BHX.
If AA can hurry up and confirm, I can use them for next years holiday instead of United. Surely they wouldn't leave it too much later than now, as people start to book for next summer.