What are the fundamental differences between the two dominant alliances? Here's what I came up with:

1. No bonus miles for status on Star Alliance flights with a MP account. Not so on 1W.

2. Star has more members, but you have to decide for yourself if the increased number of members makes a difference. If all your flying is just to the main parts of the continents, it probably doesn't.

3. OneWorld offers an award RTW program, at least with AA miles. Not so on UA.

How is treatment by other airlines as a Star Gold vs. OneWorld Emerald or Sapphire?

BJ