Now that details of the new cards are out. I think it's another miss for Royal Bank. I have an Avion card why should I bother with AA or BA specific card? I have average size accounts on both AA and BA (100,000+ each). It used to be the BA had a very different program to AA which makes cumulating miles in two different programs worthwhile. Now, the new BA program resembles a lot its American cousin yet still keeping some unique features such as BA joint awards (with CX, AA, Emirates and etc.) Such award is not a Oneworld award yet allow a combination of award on BA and a partner (not necessary Oneworld?) for the same if not lower level of points than AA. BA miles can be redeemed for Concorde once it starts flying again, not AA. Trasnfer points to AA can cumulate towards lifetime Platinum status and redeem awards on a greater variety of airlines such as Swissair, Air Tahiti, Air Pacific, Hawaiian and etc. AA miles can be used to override capacity controls on AA and BA flights, something BA can't. This will be useful when you want an award seat like during the upcoming Olympic Games.

Just got a mailing from BA last week. Can you believe it they are already publicizing about the BA Royal Bank card. In my opinion, it's an expensive card, overpriced with little value. The companion ticket is valid on full-fare only which may be very useful depending on each person's needs.