AA does status match at the EXP level. Everything is negotiable. The key is, do you have anything (worthy) to negotiate with? I status matched to Platinum on DL, CO and US, also MVP Gold on AS. I asked about the new Diamond level @ DL, DL gave me a list of things I could do to achieve that level without flying 125,000 miles. Nothing on the list was cheap.

AA has done several favors, broken/disregarded their own rules/regulations for employees of my firm and myself. They offered sometimes and sometimes we asked/requested. When gate agents do us a favor they ask that we not brag and boast to other passengers while onboard.

I'm in the elite levels within other industrys credit/charge cards, AX Centurion, Private banking, fractional jet ownership, Charitable donations, etc, they all have done/will do, special favors voluntarily or through request.