MilesBuzz! - Best way to go NYC-Japan 2013

Hey guys, my wife and I've been trying to plan a one week trip at the of April to Japan from NYC. I've searched quite a bit for good redemption opportunities, but could use a little advice. I actually have to end up in Kumamoto (KMJ) which JAL flies to from HND, so would most like to go NYC-HND.

I'd love to experience JAL and/or ANA premium cabins, but I've had difficulty finding either (no JAL whatsoever via BA website). There was a good option for ANA J (777-300ER) on the way back for 67.5K through united that I liked. Was considering AA first class on the way there for 62.5K, but haven't read the greatest things about AA first. Also HND-KMJ on JAL was available online via BA, but I could not book online, I assume I have to call for this?

I have enoug points on AA, UA, and Starwood for transfers or partner redemptions. Any input is appreciated!

assuming you meant 'beginning' of April...

I see several options for ANA premium out of LAX, on April 3rd for example, and a few different options for positioning. Same for return (April 10).

For JAL, the Qantas site doesn't seem to be finding anything. It did find a CX flight into NRT, but that doesn't work for you. Try AwardTravelr.com, it came back with a few JAL economy seats so maybe searching more would give results.

And yes, for almost all BA partner redemptions, you'll have to call.

Thx for the reply! Whoops, meant end of April, but did u find that using ANA tool or UA? And would i be able to book through LAX using UA for the same amount of miles as NYC-japan? Will check out awardtravlr, though awardnexus didn't show much for JAL either.

Found using the united website. if you're looking at the end of the month, it seems like most days have availability from ewr via lax. And yes, it would be 67.5k miles for a first class ticket nyc-lax-hnd.

Try posting in the jal forum to see what people say about award availability.

JAL is excellent. Love there bento box meals.^

Found using the united website. if you're looking at the end of the month, it seems like most days have availability from ewr via lax. And yes, it would be 67.5k miles for a first class ticket nyc-lax-hnd.

Try posting in the jal forum to see what people say about award availability.