A couple of differences. QF lifetime status is published, while AA's is an undocumented perk. And it is true that all miles count, including elite status bonus and class of service bonus on ALL OW flights that earn miles. Special promotions are also counted. I just passed the 1 million mile mark and only about 350K miles were actually flown. And I don't have a mileage earning credit card! Those cheap USA-Europe flights, with 100% bonus plus promos were such that I earned close to 80K miles for 3 return trips one winter. They do add up. But buyer beware with AA.