Originally Posted by
caliphornia
Thank you! I get you, I do enjoy the upgrades more than lounge access (spend more time in the air than in the lounges, after all). I'm most likely deciding between the two; would you know if there are there any upcoming expansion plans for carries associated with Star Alliance/oneworld that may tip the scales on way or another? From my research, neither AA or UA are looking to increase their presence in LAX but I just want to make sure.
I've not heard anything, other than the rumor that Aer Lingus -- which flies LAX-DUB -- might join oneworld some day.
It is possible to attain status with AA by means other than flying, including credit-card spend, car rentals, hotel stays, AAdvantage e-shopping, AAdvantage Dining, etc.