Originally Posted by
goingbananas
Interesting read so far. I am EXP with AA, but travel a significant amount now on CX (from leaving UA and doing DCIR trips). I have thought about switching over to CX and get diamond status since the INTL longhaul flights are on CX mostly. However, being based in the US and still doing a fair amount of domestic travel and AA's "earn and burn" ability is tough to beat.
I guess I will have to continue to evaluate this as I go forward.
No need to evaluate - AA is better than CX.
Even I assume CX will immediately fasttrack you to DM, here are the instant that you will lose:
1. 100% Bonus miles (When you travel on CX on AA codeshare, your earning rate follows AA, not CX)
2. A more restricted mile expiration policy (AA - 18 months after no activity, CX - 3 years after they are earned)
3. Your EXP complimentary upgrade as well as eVIP.
4. YQ/YR for award tickets
But here is what you can gain back:
1. Possible op-up chance (You will need to ask an actual DM for that possibility)
2. Guaranteed lounge access (AC requires membership, if you are AA members)
3. First-Class lounge in HKG
4. And various gestures discussed through here