We're planning to book travel on AA from NYC-ROM RT. The flights are code shares with BA and Iberia. Tix on BA and Iberia respectively are $110 less than AA tix, though the flights are on AA metal. I have no status on AA, though was a Plat about 15 years ago.

Any reason NOT to book via BA or Iberia? If OK to book on one of these, is one better than the other?

One further question--is it worth paying for econ seats in the front of the cabin?

Thanks!