Thanks for the comprehensive summary, Water Polo Ref.

Although I have been flying DL almost exclusively for the last 5 years, I am planning on flying a lot of AA in 2003, partly out of dissatisfaction with DL's upgrade restrictions as well as its exit from major Latin American markets. OTOH, I agree that no other airline comes close to matching DL's treatment of its top-tier flyers (at least those willing to pay the high upgradable fares). Unlimited domestic upgrades and confirmed upgrades at booking are significant and valuable benefits.

Having said that, I believe (without the benefit of your first-hand experiences) that you are being unfair to AA's FF program. First, my understanding is that if you fly another airline due to AA delays or cancellations, you get full credit for the flights. Secondly, to make EXP, you need 100,000 miles OR 100,000 Q-Points. So you would NOT need to fly 140,000 miles to qualify. Lastly, I know it's a nuisance that AA will match UA but not DL status, but that's a marketing decision by AA and is easy enough to overcome with a little creativity and judiciously applied pressure.

Anyway, your excellent summary will give us all much food for thought!

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Vasant