When the US government approved the partnership between American and British Airways, it made the carriers agree that Americans airline miles would not be valid for transatlantic travel on British Airways, and that travel on British Airways would not earn Americans AAdvantage airline miles.
This is too bad, because British Airways has much better Business and First Class seats than American.
The way around this disAAdvantage is to use Americans airline miles to fly British Airways from Canada or the Caribbean, as the ban only applies to flights originating in the US.
If you're not already a First Class Flyer subscriber, click here to receive a FREE TRIAL ISSUE
British Airways flies to London from Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal; several Caribbean cities too (youll get the American Airlines connecting ticket free).
We checked numerous dates from British Airways Canadian gateways and found very good availability.
Ask for a stopover and you can have a nice side-trip at one of the Canadian gateways. Unfortunately, Caribbean stopovers not allowed.
Route through Canada or the Caribbean and the cost is the same -- Business Class costs 90,000 airline miles, and First Class costs 125,000 airline miles.
If you're not already a First Class Flyer subscriber, click here to receive a FREE TRIAL ISSUE







Send to a friend
Print this tip
Email Sign Up (Free)
Add to del.icio.us

Flying first class between Hawaii and the mainland. Hawaiian airlines gives the best service, the attendants call you by your first name, the food is prepared by one of hawaii's top chefs Bev Gannon, you have your own personal movie dvd, their are orchids in the cabin. United first class has no leg rests and movies are hard to see on high small screens. Food is not as good. American would be the next choice although we found on first from LA to New York the planes are old and first class is not that classy. Aloha airlines is very cramped and can not really be considered first class as planes are small.
My first/business on Delta from Hawaii to LAX was the worst possible. No foot rests, no food and little service. It was a "ripoff".
What's the best way to get an upgrade on AA from full fare economy to business, with over 150,000 miles earned? Economy ticket bought and dates reserved. JJK
What's the best way to get an upgrade on AA from full fare economy to business, with over 150,000 miles earned? Economy ticket bought and dates reserved. JJK
British Air from Canada is the way to fly Business Class to London. The seats go to 180 degrees compared to AA 150. Alan
Have something to say?
Add your insider tip! Your personal experiences are an important part of the FlightBliss knowledge base on flight ratings, the quality of airlines, seats, schedules, mileage programs and fares. Post your comment on this FlightBliss Tip below.