My GF and I are thinking about switching to BA from DL mainly because they fly the route we want from EDI to SEA (through LHR not AMS or CDG) and because... well let's face it... DL hasn't exactly been good to us. Conversely, a business partner of ours is always bragging about how well BA treats him. Schmoozing in the exec lounge with the former PM of Britain.... constantly upgraded to the 747's upper deck... you know... the life. (he flies the same route)

Looks like this costs us about $200 more per transatlantic flight which is ok, but something I'm really worried about... flying American (AA?) domestically. We do most of our flying up and down the west coast with occasional flights to the southeast, northeast, and midwest although with our new business launch I see our domestic flying ramping up. Assuming I can get a status match (gold) from each airline would this be smart move or just a case of grass is greener? Personally, I would say that traveling in style is more important than price, but we can't afford to upgrade each to 1st class until we make it big.

In regards to west coast trips, you could always fly Alaska Airlines. They're a partner with Oneworld along with SkyTeam.

I think a switch is unwise. Every time the unions vote to stricke, something like 60% of employees support it.

Fly with an airline that says i the air.

Gold won't get you complementary F upgrades on AA. They will still cost you an electronic "sticker" sold in 500 mile increments. Then again, I have had many recent F experiences on domestic AA and find the experience superior to DL in every way possible. You get what you pay for, and DL gives "F" away to far too many people.

I'm surprised that the fare difference isn't greater given the notoriously high landing and other fees that BA charges.