Flying over the Russian airspace may be scary for some, although I haven't heard of any Belarusian style forced landing. I think that's the biggest reason why AC switched from YVR-DEL to DXB.

Speaking of DXB, sample itineraries in the OP include AI DXB-DEL. I wonder if you still get access to EK lounges, because they partner with AC and their buffet was good, which also offered Moet & Chandon Imperial Brut. Not an expensive bubbly, but I think it's still more expensive than what they serve/ed at Al Safwa, which tout itself as a first class lounge.
That sounds painful for such a long flight.