Hi

Good question. I think the NW through AMS to east Africa - for accumulating miles on DL anyway - is the best route. If you're in paid business class, upgrades are obviously not a problem. Only problem is that, within east Africa, KQ flights don't qualify - nor do flights on KQ metal from AMS (at least they didn't).

Otherwise, just switching to NW would seem to be the best as their allegiance with KLM and KQ would allow upgrades (I think). Kenya Airways has a really good network for all the countries you mention.

I like EK and have flown them from DXB-JFK - not sure about their FF program or allegiance at this point.

st