Given my PLAT status, I would prefer Cathay Pacific. I can get 1.0 qualifying miles on Cathay's web site and 1.5 on AA's site (of course, it is several grand more).

Of course, the alternative is Singapore Air which I understand has outstanding coach service from JFK to SIN. But ... I am trying to stay away from Mileage Plus since I think it is going down the tubes.

I am tall and have a bad back (fell off of a horse and never recuperated). Who have better seats?

Is there a third alternative? JAL to NRT and then on to SIN? Does AA give miles for JAL from NRT to SIN? Are the JAL seats pretty cramped?