I'm checking out BR now. Thanks for the tip.

Just thought of another question: If I switch to another *A program, and then fly them the first year to build status, would it not be possible to use lounges until elite status on the new airline is attained? Or would it be possible to get credit on the new *A program while using my *A status from United to get in the lounges?

If the second option isn't possible, then it's probably better to do a status match to an airline in another alliance.

Thanks.