Originally Posted by discoverCSG

Given the Arlington and LAX bits of this, I would suggest you look closely at AA/US, now in the process of merging.

While DCA has a 1250-mile perimeter rule, exceptions include nonstop service to LAX on AA and AS (which is an earn/burn/dayoftravel partner to AAdvantage) and PHX on US (whence it is easy to connect all over the west coast).

With three transcons a month, you'll easily make Executive Platinum by year's end (and you can do a challenge to get to Platinum much faster). At that level, upgrade rates are very, very good.

The best part is convenient nonstop service to most major markets out of DCA.

The competing program in NOVA is UA's MileagePlus; the recent changes to mileage earning (which hurt most flyers not buying last-minute tickets, especially on transcons) and lower upgrade rates for 1K's - to say nothing of the PQD requirements for status earning - make it less attractive.

The worst part in your case, though, would be having to schlep to Dulles for most trips, or connect via ORD/IAH/DEN/SFO/EWR if flying from National. Here's where AA/US shines: DCA is a short drive/cab ride/Metro ride from Arlington, and the terminal is very compact once you get there. Take it from one who lives in the District and recently switched from UA to AA/US... you won't miss driving to Dulles and walking more than a mile to many of the gates.