Please don't flame me for asking what is probably a basic Q. I tried searching but didn't get anywhere.

I just got Plat status and have to go to London. AA does not fly the route non-stop anymore; everything non-stop is on BA. My last flight on BA was a misery and I'd actually given all my London business to DL and Virgin. That was 6 years ago, though, so maybe it's better?

I could fly AA by going though JFK. There is, however, a 4 hour layover. I also thought that if I did that, I could take the sting out by upgrading myself, but there is currently a waitlist even using miles & $$. But even if I don't get upgraded, at least I will be in MCE.

I haven't taken into consideration the miles earning piece, which I probably should.

Help me resolve this dilemma please: BA non-stop vs AA with stop? I have both itineraries on hold.

TIA.