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Airfare deals are typically only available on limited dates. We recommend that you use Google Flights to find dates to fly, then book through an online travel agency, such as Orbitz or Expedia, which allows you to cancel flights without penalty by 11pm Eastern Time within one day of booking. However, if you’re using the American Express Platinum Card, you’ll need to book directly with the airline or through Amex Travel portal to get 5x MR points. Remember: Fares may disappear quickly, so book right away and take advantage of Orbitz or Expedia’s courtesy cancellation if you’re unable to get the time away from work or family.
The major carriers seem to be in a fare war again, with transcon flights starting from just $196 round-trip! You can fly from New York (JFK) or Newark (EWR) to Las Vegas (LAS), Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) on American, Delta, JetBlue, United and Virgin America this January and February at a phenomenal price. Availability is wide open so you'll have your pick of dates and airline — perfect if you're trying to earn status with a specific carrier. Search for your desired dates on Google Flights and then complete booking on your carrier's site.
Note that Delta's lowest fares will likely book into Basic Economy "E" class, which is especially unfortunate given that these fares match regular economy fares offered by AA and United.
Airline: American, Delta, JetBlue, Virgin America and United
Route: EWR and JFK to LAS, LAX and SFO
Cost: $196+ round-trip in economy
Dates: January - February 2017
Booking Link: Orbitz or Expedia
Pay With: The Platinum Card from American Express (5x on airfare), Chase Sapphire Reserve, Premier Rewards Gold Card from American Express, Citi Prestige (3x on airfare) or Chase Sapphire Preferred (2x on travel)
Here are a few examples of what you can book:
New York (JFK) to Las Vegas (LAS) for $196 round-trip in January on Delta:
New York (JFK) to Las Vegas (LAS) for $196 round-trip in January on American:
Newark (EWR) to San Francisco (SFO) for $198 round-trip in February on United:
New York (JFK) to San Francisco (SFO) for $198 round-trip in February on Virgin America:
New York (JFK) to Los Angeles (LAX) for $218 round-trip in January on JetBlue:
Maximize Your Purchase
Don’t forget to use a credit card that earns additional points on airfare purchases, such as the American Express Platinum Card (5x on flights booked directly with airlines or American Express Travel), Chase Sapphire Reserve, American Express Premier Rewards Gold or Citi Prestige (3x on airfare) or the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (2x on all travel purchases). Check out this post for more on maximizing airfare purchases.
If you’re able to score one of these tickets, please share the good news in the comments below!
