Originally Posted by
gingham
Similar situation here. I fly often from Toronto to HKG/PEK/NRT (refer to my questionnaire just a few posts up). And I've also looked into Alaska's program but many things--upgrades and other priority treatments--would be applicable if you don't actually fly with Alaska as often, correct?
That's the downside when you fly on partners and not on Alaska metal. Alaska is not my primary carrier, though I know someone here in the Bay Area that is a top tier flyer with them and makes the partners work.
AA does extend some perks to Alaska flyers (baggage, priority boarding) but nothing in terms of upgrades.
You could fly UA/Star Alliance, as an example, and get all your elite perks, but you're not going to see too many miles with a revenue based program like theirs if you're in discounted economy. You just have to decide what has the most value for you.