Importing AVI to After Effects

Hello

I've read a few discussions, on adobe forums, and elsewhere, but not found an answer yet.

I can't import AVI videos into after effects CS6, can anybody tell me why?

I think the codec is H.264 AVC (I'm pretty new to this, so sorry if this is wrong).

I am using 40 minute videos in AVI (H.264 AVC) that are approx 2GB in size (no idea how to reduce file size without affecting quality by the way). 720p, sometimes 1080p.

As I cannot import to CS6, I have to firstly convert in handbrake, however, this adds time to the process, and really hammers down on the quality of the video (even when selecting the best settings).

Thank you