I can't think of a better program to be in
American absolutely rocks.The grass is simply not greener elsewhere with some exceptions depending where the indivdual travels and what carrier one personally prefers.However sometimes its good to change programs to see for yourself or dabble in another without leaving your primary program DOA.
Have been in them at all and at most elite levels.
Americans award availability has consistently been amongst the very best in our country.
Other well known travel reporters have noted that Exec Plat benfits are richer then any other program out there.

AA only gets a barely passing grade for some very tired old aircraft and a number of bitter unhappy FAs
At the end of the day the earnings are generous in the program and the reward options are rich
I am thrilled to fly Qantas on the new 380 in first on AA miles and on British Airways to Europe in First without the extortion surcharges.

Delta doesn't compare IMO at its best its just barely satisfactory on average
United Mileage Plus and its Starnet blocking
Why would anyone subject their butt in seat and partner earnings for a program that has devalued severely over the years and has heavy handed terms and conditions.
Until Continental proves it isn't a Mileage plus clone with poor availabity on award seats I am staying far away other then to park some rainy day partner miles there

I am delighted to stay indefinately as an Exeutive Platinum or Platinum member
Approaching 4 million miles and have earned lifetime Platinum status 2 miilion miles ago
Would like to add that any concern/mishap when traveling that mattered to me has mattered to AA
In fact American has consistently done better over the years at recovery then some hotel companies.

American hs problems and issues however they do an excellent job overall and the new one way awards simply brilliant.The one downside is the new loss of stopovers the only mistake I am aware of in one of the worlds best frequent flyer programs ever written and let us not forget the worlds first
Very grateful to American at least for today
Good luck in your choice
Cheers