Both Star Alliance and OneWorld should give flyers more choice, especially for international travel. This should make for interesting decision-making, as one has more freedom to choose based on factors other than just ff miles and loyalty to one principle airline.

As for me, I hope to become a frequent flyer again this year if my plans allow me to return to Korea.

I've been mulling over my choices of Star Alliance partners there and got to thinking -
which SA airlines have the best economy class? If prices and (status-qualifying) ff miles being more or less equal in my program, why would I choose airline A over airline B?

For example, for travel to and from Asia, I could choose Air Canada, United, Thai, and soon ANA. Maybe even Singapore (fingers crossed!).

Or how about those of you who fly to Europe? Why would you choose United over, say, Lufthansa, Air Canada, or SAS?

The point is, it seems that one should now be better able to benefit from competition _within_ alliances (at least in terms of service) as well as between them.

Any comments or suggestions?

Big question -- no simple answer. That's why Flyer Talk exists. Look through the various threads. There may be a super bonus miles promotion on Air Canada one month that is just too good to pass up. Cost may be another reason--United has great e-fares and now a great sale with prices to Europe that are half of Air Canada's. Perks and upgrades are another possibility. As an Aeroplan Super Elite member, I can get confirmable upgrades on deep discount flights on Air Canada internationally and that makes a huge difference. So keep reading and looking, there is lots to learn (I am still learning!)

For trips to NZ/Australia, I'd choose Air New Zealand over United any day--regardless of class. It's almost like a time-warp to travel on ANZ or to travel on Ansett or Qantas in Australia--can you imagine being served a full meal with tea/coffee on a flight that barely lasts an hour. Talk about the good old days!