Originally Posted by
lhrsfo
I also have been tempted by AA, especially now that it has linked so closely with BA and OneWorld is gaining some traction. However, financially it is performing very poorly, so I suspect that the drastic cuts will be coming. That's principally why I have not jumped ship - the grass may be greener but for how long. On balance I think I'll stick with UA, although the 8 usable systemwides would be very nice indeed.
This is a consideration in my thinking as well.
More generally, I could go on and on comparing UA and AA. But to sum up from a 1K versus EXP perspective, I think AA has a better FF program (including better upgrade and award availability, better EXP versus 1K desk, EXP being the top tier whereas 1K being second tier, EXP access to OW F lounges overseas) but UA is a better airline in terms of E+, newer planes, better new C and F seats and IFE, and nonstops to places where AA is cutting back (such as SFO-BOS).
I'm trying to cut back travel somewhat, which could mean keeping either 1K or EXP status. I'm leaning toward retaining 1K, but could reverse that choice next year depending on what's doing with the two airlines.