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What’s Best Airline For Flying To Japan?
Hey everyone,
I need some help figuring out my trip to Japan.
I’ve been checking out Point.me, United, and VirginAtlantic, but I’m having trouble finding available seats, whether for points or cash, especially with Virgin, despite hearing they fly to Japan.
I noticed Virgin has a 30% bonus if you transfer Amex points, so I’d like to take advantage of that if I can.
I’m based in Houston but can travel from elsewhere.
So, where have you had luck finding available seats?
Also, which airlines have you flown with and how was your experience?
I’m planning to go in March ’25 for cherry blossom season, although I know it’s still less than 330 days out.
My points situation:
Membership Rewards: 400k
United Airlines Miles: 92k
Star Alliance GoldThanks in advance for any advice!
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2 Replies
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You can book flights with ANA through Virgin Atlantic, but you won’t find ANA flights listed on the Virgin Atlantic website.
Your best option is to search on United’s website, and if you see ANA flights, give Virgin Atlantic a call to make your booking
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Have you checked British Airways?
It might end up costing a bit more in Avios points, but they’re partnered with Chase and Amex for point transfers.
You can find not only flights with JAL, but also business class options with Qatar Airways if you’re open to a longer route with a layover in Doha, for example.
I booked my flights 330 days in advance using Membership Rewards points for a trip on JAL, and it cost a little over 400,000 points for two people round trip.
Keep an eye on availability there, but the award seats tend to go quickly.
Finding availability with Virgin Atlantic or ANA is quite challenging at this point.
Seats get taken up very fast, so you’ll need to search regularly to see if any saver award space opens up.
On a different note, you could also consider ZipAir.
They operate out of LA and offer lie-flat seating for around $3,000 round trip during the time you’re planning to travel.
That’s pretty affordable compared to JAL, which typically costs over $6,000 for a one-way ticket.
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