I prefer BAEC to Skywards, but generally prefer flying EK to BA, especially in F which is not only an amazing product but generally better priced that BA F. I only travel in F if the increased fare from J is not too excessive, which is very much more often the case with EK on the routes I seem to fly on.

I do a lot of Africa and prefer to avoid the African airlines, so EK has been a lifeline for me. I would add that Qatar joining OW has also increased my mile earning ability, although its not quite to the standard of BA or EK, but its not bad. Normally I take most of the year to re-qualify for Gold on BA. Now with Qatar I am almost there 2 months into my new BA year.