3) You are able to get exactly the flights/dates/times you want when you are claiming Aeroplan rewards (there is probably some fine print somewhere, but I have always been given exactly what I want).
As a SE, as long as there are seats in the class that you want, they will give it to you, in another words, not controlled by D and W inventory. Even if the SE is not the one travelling, they will usually do the best (which mean you'll get the dates and time you want...!) to get your request! This is a real benefit to me, second on my list after upgrades!