You could use Avios for AS. It'll come to 3x coach though I believe. If you're on the west coast that might still an ok redemption. I wouldn't do it from New York though since BA has a distance based award table.
Edit: oh I see Austin... Repositioning from LAX if you can would probably be a good idea. Book a cheap Y fare or xfer to southwest for the relatively short hop. If you want all J then US presents the best value.
I don't see much difference between UA and US these days in "F". Just imho... now several years back I would have preferred UA. But US has improved and, well UA... My last J flt had flight attendants who's attitude resembled that cheerleading coach on Glee. YMMV. Alaska is a good choice from what I've heard as well.
Last edited by mia; Dec 16, 2013 at 7:33 am