The wrinkle for 9W joining OW seems to be AA, S2 relationship. I still don't fully understand how S2 became a preferred partner for AA over 9W. Was it simply because 9w had not received permission from US authorities to fly to the US? Will this change with recent change in the situation?

9W definitely seems a better fit for OW but I was hoping that OW does not become an entirely high priced network. With BA's excessive emphasis on yield, I prefer AA's emphasis on overall profitability. 9W compared to S2 is a much pricier carrier. On the other hand 9W offers a much better network and a better run airline.

I personally think S2 will be kicked out of AA alliance and BA/9W alliance will be expanded to AA. Doesn't 9W also have an arrangement with QF as well?