I've been AA Gold for a long time, but since I live in the Pacific Northwest, AK is the home airline here. So I've been thinking about switching this year to qualify for AK MVP (equivalent first level elite).

I know that with AA Gold, even when I fly coach they hold the center seat empty as long as they can for Gold cards. I can also upgrade more easily, although I have to plan carefully so I don't get bumped by Platinum and Exec Platinum members.. Is there something equivalent for MVPs? I don't see anything on the AK website.

Does anyone have any comments about which is better? I fly across country alot, but as it happens I have 3 trips planned between now and March on AK. Gotta decide soon.

Thanks for any help.