"Best FF programs around" is pretty subjective. If I were flying on a mix of fares that was mainly discounted Y and frequently traveling with multiple people BA would not be my choice. For folks paying CW and F fares or achieving Gold level, they earn access to much better lounges, a better seat product, and for certain levels above gold, one-any available seat booking per year for 2 which is great during the holidays, Gold upgrade for 2 which is even valid off a mileage ticket. BAEC is targeted at the full fare passengers although they have made some changes recently providing more TP earning on lower fares. I also know if I am going to fly discounted Y, it probably makes sense to do in on my DL or AA programs for mileage earning. Having been top tier in DL, AA, TW, BA and second level (SEN) in LH at various points over the year, I think the key is to be an educated consumer which is sort of the point of FT and why I get a lot out of it. As others pointed out FFPs are definitely one-size fits all.