LAX international transit - worth extra for oneworld?

[orangehenry]

I'm flying SYD-LAX and am now trying to book a connecting flight to YVR. it's very expensive to add it on to my existing itinerary ( I think) so I'm looking to add this leg as a standalone. I have two options 1) a cheaper Delta/Westjet flight or 2) for AUD$100 more an Alaskan Air flight.

When I spoke with Qantas on the phone I was advised that by booking a connecting flight with a oneworld partner I would be able to check my luggage all the way through to YVR (with skis this is well worth $100 IMO). However, speaking with other people they advise this is likely not the case.

Looking for some advice he - is there any benefit on spending more to be on a oneworld partner (apart from accruing SC)?

Thanks

 

[dfcatch]

In any event - you still have to clear immigration and customs and recheck your baggage -whether it is thru-checked or not.

Being on different PNRs means that you're not protected in the event of a misconnect, so allow a decent transit time.

Assuming you're arriving on QF, I would simply select whichever carrier provides the best schedule/price combo to get to YVR.

Maybe also consider a carrier with alternate later flights should you miss your first one.

AC might be a good option, and probably the one I would lean towards.

 

[cove]

For flight frequency to YVR I have used the Australian Expedia because AA/Alaska frequency often does not suit the time you want.
If the Alaskan flight has the reasonable time/times that suit you then that could be ok.

 

[trippin_the_rift]

While you're not 'protected' if separate PNR's there is a small layer of protection if you're "connecting" to AA.

Personally, if your flight to LAX is running on-time - I'd book the best flight for you before airline preferences.

 

[dfcatch]

While you're not 'protected' if separate PNR's there is a small layer of protection if you're "connecting" to AA.

Personally, if your flight to LAX is running on-time - I'd book the best flight for you before airline preferences.

AA does not really provide options to YVR though except as code shares on AS.

 

[Storyteller]

When are you going, & do you have a little spare time?

You could get creative & book a fully flex 1st ticket through AA LAX SFO SEA. Earns you 150 SC for QF, and some points. May help you get to silver or gold. Book though AA, so that You can earn SC plus points on the Alaskaair metal flights. By booking 1st, you have protection if late.

Join Radisson Carton Club, then go to the Radisson 50,000 points giveaway for 1 night stay & register. Stay overnight at the Sea Radisson. 3 minute walk from the terminal / use their comp shuttle. My 50 k points, plus 1k for booking online, plus 3or 5 k for welcome back NEXT time, plus the points for that stay posted within 24 hours. Plus cc points. Nice warm welcome too, comfy bed, hot shower, breakfast.


Then next morning fly to YVR, with lots of cheap options available. Alaskaair points can go to QF, but no SC. If this is within 24 hours of international arrival, you may get some carryover for extra luggage.