KLM Flying Dutchman - Looking to book EDI-AMS-SFO

I'm planning to start burning my FD account with a pair of EDI-AMS-SFO C-class returns for next summer - would be grateful for any tips on the following:

- I gather there is absolutely no point in trying to pay for Y tix and upgrade with points (as this would be NW metal), however getting C-class on points alone should be OK - yes?

- how far ahead can I book this? (the earliest I would be going is June 2004)

- should I use the website, phone the PE helpline or do something else?

AMS-SFO is currently run by KLM with an MD11.

A return award will cost you 80k miles. An upgrade both ways would be 40k.

As far ahead as next year you should be able to book V or Q class cheap tickets via klm.com and upgrade these. This would be my option. Only ever use a full award for very late travel when I can't get cheap tickets.

pmcg

I find it even cheaper to fly to NY and then internal flight in US

I got a deal for NCL AMS SFO rtn in December for £200 + tax and then upgraded us to C no problem. As soon as you get a PNR # they can upgrade you in theory that is.