I have been thinking about what other Star Alliance airline I would join if the possible merger between AA and US happens. I realize it's yearly but I like to have a set plan if the merger takes place.

I fly about 25,000 to 50,000 miles a year, but most are not on US. I live in NY and travel a lot in the US and Latin America for personal reasons and on my own dime. In the next few years I hope to refocus my travels to Asia. I would like to earn some status and maybe some upgrades for these trips.

What airline would be good for me? I don't have a preferred airline but I hate UA.

Thanks for any info you may give.