What is the best way to get SYD-LAX RTN in J?

[armanie]

Hi,

I was hoping people on this forum could help me.

My situation is:

1. I would like to plan a family trip SYD-LAX RTN in J class.
2. There are 5 of us.
3. I am currently a member of QFF and Kris Flyer (lowest levels).
4. I have an abundant amount of Amex points which can be transfered to either QFF or Kris Flyer.
5. I would prefer to use points only (as opposed to using points for upgrades).

Although the number of points are not a problem, I don't want to waste them unnecessarily.

I've tried logging on to QFF site, but I think because of my lowly bronze level, I never see any J class seats.

Also, I don't mind if I have to book 11-12 months ahead.

I would greatly appreciate any comments and advice.

Thanks in advance.

armanie

 

[Kiwi Flyer]

Many of the suggestions in this thread will also be relevant to you.

 

[drron]

I would think it will be impossible to get 5 awards in business on the one flight.I think you would need to consider a oneworld award.Fly Cathay to HKG and then on to LAX.Might be a bit easier next year when JAL joins oneworld.Will give you another option.
I seem to get lucky coming back from the states and have scored 2 business awards on the 1 flight but flying in to BNE.So look at BNE and MEL as possibly more likely to get awards there than SYD.

 

[armanie]

Hi,

Thanks for the tips and advice.

I guess I'll just have to keep on trying my luck.



armanie

 

[NM]

the only realistic hope of getting 5 people to the USA on award tickets is in economy. Even as a Qantas Platinum FF member, when I was planning to use FF points for a family holiday I resigned myself to the reality that 5 business class seats on the same itinerary was never going to happen. So instead I redeemed my points for 7 economy class OneWorld awards and took two travelling babysitters along with us. And it was my Frequent Flyer status that enabled me to secure 7 FF award seats on the same flights. As a Silver or Bronze member, I would not have access to the required award availability.

Although business class would be nice, I think you will have to look at slumming it in economy if you want to use FF points for your travel.

 

[PaulZ]

BOOK EARLY EARLY EARLY... i think you can book 350 days in advance - do that... I suggest subscribing to expertflyer or the such so you can see the actual availability on each flight quicker and easily.

I booked my trips to and from LAX 11 months in advance and got 5J award tickets on the same flight... ADL-BNE-LAX both directions.

But at the end of the day we were prepared to split onto two flights if required... Afterall we were receiving nearly $50,000 worth of flights for free - we have to be flexible.

PaulZ

 

[simongr]

Given the expectation of a lack of award availability - have you considered 2 J and 3Y seats?