well, if I went with an FF card it would be first off to bank some points, since both families that we visit a lot and are very close to are far away, emergeny, or walk up flights are realisitic and will probably happen at least once a year, BUT, other than southwest, does any company make it possible to use miles for walk up fares, or emergency flights?

In tis case it seems that a walk up 1000$ domestic flight would easily blow away the cashback card, but the question is, even if I pay the 75$ expedite fee on AA for example, would I still be able to use 25k miles for a walk up or same day flight provided I pay this fee.

And thanks for the write up, or essay as you call it, LOL, it is very helpful for myself and a lot of people in the same position as myself. Thank you very much!