Deal alert: Widespread transcontinental lie-flat business class award space for 4
Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here.
Premium transcontinental flights are some of the most coveted domestic awards. Given the stiff competition between airlines, these routes feature elevated service and often better seats as well. However, they're pricier than your average domestic award, and finding saver-level award space is challenging.
Well, good news: TPG has spotted widespread business class award space on premium transcontinental American Airlines flights this fall. Specifically, we're seeing lots of availability on flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and Miami International Airport (MIA) from August through November 2022. Many dates even have four or more seats available.
The Boston flights are operated by American's swanky Airbus A321Ts, while the Miami flights are operated by Boeing 777-200s and Boeing 777-300s. All flights feature lie-flat seats, Flagship Lounge access, amenity kits and multi-course meals.
Related: Review of American Airlines' A321T in business from Boston to Los Angeles
American AAdvantage normally charges 32,500 miles each way for these saver awards, but sometimes offers them for less through its Web Specials. A potentially better way to book these flights would be through Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan or Etihad Guest, as both programs charge a flat 25,000 miles for these awards. Even better, if you're short Etihad miles, you can transfer points in from American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One or Citi ThankYou Rewards.
Related: The best websites for searching Oneworld award availability
The deal
Airlines: American Airlines
Routes: LAX to/from BOS/MIA
Cost: From 25,000 miles + $5.60 taxes and fees one-way in business class
Dates: August through November 2022
Pay taxes/fees with: The Platinum Card® from American Express (5 points per dollar on airfare booked directly with the airline; on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year), Chase Sapphire Reserve (3 points per dollar on travel) or Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (2 points per dollar on travel) for travel protections on the award flight.
Sample itineraries
Boston (BOS) to Los Angeles (LAX) one-way in September
Los Angeles (LAX) to Boston (BOS) one-way in October
Los Angeles (LAX) to Miami (MIA) one-way in August
Miami (MIA) to Los Angeles (LAX) one-way in October
Maximize your purchase
When paying the taxes and fees on your award ticket, be sure to use a credit card that earns additional points on airfare and offers travel protection in case anything goes wrong. Cards that fit the bill include The Platinum Card® from American Express, Chase Sapphire Reserve, or the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.
Related: The best credit cards for paying taxes and fees on award tickets