Helpful hints on FFP's

Hi there....

You wrote a nice article about the frequent flyer programs and how accessibility may become easier. I hope so.

I have been trying to get 2 first class seats from Ft Lauderdale, FL to Australia using Continental/Qantas for two years now with no luck. I have enough miles in my account for two first class tickets.

Continental only allows bookings 9 months in advance. This hinders getting awards later than that. Going to Australia necessitates at least a year or longer advance planning for me.

Do you have any helpful hints on what to say or who to call to get help? I can't seem to book these tickets with normal Continental employees--and I am not that picky about dates. It doesn't have to be in the summer time. I will travel with a companion during the Fall or Spring too.

I would even be willing to pay someone to assist me. Travel agents won't do it and I understand that airlines won't allow them to call on my behalf.

Best regards,
Stan

Hi Stan,

You have the most important ingredient which is flexibility. If you can plan your trip with shorter notice you might have some luck, as airlines tend to hold off on opening awards until the actual flight date. Basically airlines want to see if they can sell the tickets and as departure dates comes along with empty seats they open them up for awards.

You can also try searching with expert.com and very useful tool for finding flight awards.

My best,
Joel Widzer