Originally Posted by Gardyloo

With an increased activity level and based in NYC, I think it's hard not to suggest going with AA. Yes, you don't get much credit flying CX discount fares, but you could fly on AA metal to HKG and minimize the CX "losses" to any intra-Asia flights.

But by comparison you have so many domestic and TATL options that it might be possible to get to, and maintain, AA Platinum (OW Sapphire) through ordinary travel, maybe with the odd mileage run thrown in (easy from NYC). Plat would get you a 100% mileage bonus, lounge access on international itineraries, easier domestic upgrades, and many more perks than AA Gold/OW Ruby earns.