The most simple way to do it is to get an SPG card and transfer to Multiplus. Takes one week to clear.

AA - JFK-GYE via MIA is the worst both ways. Coming into Ecuador you land at 1130PM so if your going somewhere outside of GYE good luck... Leaving GYE you leave at 0000 so your landing in Miami at 0400-0500 with little to zero sleep.

Even COPA thru PTY is better or AVIANCA thru BOG.

Multiplus has awards in coach for as low as 15,000 (normally 22,000) but 15,000 can be found with flexibility and in business for 32,000 anytime but the holidays. $320 in points for a lie flat from JFK-GYE overnight non-stop (with Flagship access at JFK) is a no brainer.. Availability is pretty good, certainly better than AA and 1000X better than BA Avios. Avios availability is slim to none as is and in Business forget it won't happen period. And if you do find business it will be on a 737MAX vs. a 767 lie flat.. They seem to be phasing out the AA 767 on the Ecuador runs... less and less to GYE.

I've done this trek before and just recently did the LATAM route 3 weeks ago it was well worth it... The seat wasn't the best (I am tall) but the service was top notch..

Setting up the Multiplus account takes some work, however once you have everything in place the rest is easy...