Ditto Efrem and Adman. Apparently, many airports process operational upgrades based on elite level and cost of the ticket purchased (or so it was explained to me at JFK). And I agree, if you travel internationally a lot and don't already belong to a lounge program, the access to the lounges is a very welcome benefit. So, yes, it's definitely worth a few extra flights if you're very close to it already. Just don't expect much recognition from AA airport and in-flight crews and you won't be disappointed.