And to close this thread... Given that I couldn't get availability in the direct AMM-JFK flight and the extra fuel surcharges with BA made the ticket less compelling. The folks at Gala Travel were stellar and have certainly earned my business in the future but for now. I'm just burning mile to/from Maldives which were my main destination for this flight...
Got 2 F on Etihad using miles near the dates I wanted... Can't wait to try the suites.