One Minor hiccup - AS doesn't officially offer non AS Elites early boarding. As a general rule I've been able to board early as a NW Gold but every once in a while I run into a GA who says only AS MVP/Gs can board early.

On the plus side for NW elites though - as far as I know only NW Elites have a shot at AS upgrades. Granted its a relatively small chance since its basically upgrade at the gate based on availability - but I get it about 1/4 of the time. Oh - its also based on certs and NW Elites only get 8 AS certs a year on request.