On the London-Italy routes, BA operates a 2 class plane, business and economy. There is no first class.

I'm assuming this is all on 1 ticket. If so, you are entitled to business class if there is availability.

Try calling AA ASAP and see if they can find availability in business class for you.

This change can't be done at the airport. It has to be done by AA.

Good advise. I just called AA and they said at the time of booking (March) there were no award seats available for the BA LHR to FCO so I BOUGHT that portion. ( I have a terrible memory, but it is all coming back to me) The tkt was fairly cheap. Lo and behold, there just happened to be an award seat available today!!!! But, I had to pay the $150 change fee!!!!! Oh, well, what the heck, I did it. Felt like it was worth it to be comfortable for the 2 1/2 hr. flight. Although, I am feeling a little taken advantage of though!!!

Now you will also be able to use BA's Terraces Lounge during your layover in LHR before connecting to FCO and MXP Lounge(if BA has one?) during your return.

Oh, that's right.... nothing like a $150 "free" drink!! :>) I'm sure it will be nice.