American Express Membership Rewards - Int'l Airline Program - HELP!

Hello -

I'm considering upgrading to the Amex Platinum specifically for the airline program...

I'm reading this is a great benefit and am wondering if anyone can help me determine if it would be a good deal for me?

Specifically, I would like to purchase 4 business class tickets from SEA - CDG for June 17 on Air France, with a return from BCN - SEA on July 12.

The current lowest fare on AF is about $3,500 each.

I'm wondering if the Amex Plat could save me money? Specifically I'm wondering what (or how I can find) the price through the Int'l Airline Program (I realize it's full fare, but I don't know how to find the full fare price or get info on availability).

I realize I'd need two cards, one for me, one for my spouse to buy 2 tickets.

Can anyone help?

Thanks.

When checking the price on the airline website, check off fully flexible then you will get the “real” price which is probably more than 2X $3,500 as such it doesn’t pay to get the Plat just for that for 2 reasons 1) you will be paying more with the two for one when discount prices are available 2) you can only earn miles on the paying tickets vs. buying @ discounted price from the airline you will earn miles on all 4

1) you will be paying more with the two for one when discount prices are available

I dug up an old thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=739396&highlight=airline+program) and found the eligible fare bases on Air France, those being CRT or CRTUS. Roundtrip SEA-CDG for the OP's dates (I assume BCN would be reasonably comparable) on a CRT fare is indeed quoted as over $10,500.

I've seen anecdotal evidence of the 2-for-1 program being superior to discounted premium class offerings, but it's been limited. I have used the program on CO to AUA (Aruba) and Central America but have never found it competitive versus discounted business class for trips to Europe.

I have never found the program to work in your favor on fares to Asia if you are flying out of lax.

Just my two cents!

I have never found the program to work in your favor on fares to Asia if you are flying out of lax.

Just my two cents!

Yes it does, I saved a few thousand when flying CX form LAX-HKG

I fly to TLV quite often and have never found the 241 a savings. In fact come to think of it ditto to all destinations.
Guess it will only save $$$ on last minute fares; as the regular discounted business will always be cheaper.

I tend to find it only saves you money if you are booking late or need flexible tickets. If you are after the cheapest tickets and can book in advance then its unlikely to save you much.

However, the insurance and other benefits you get with Platinum more than make up for the fee, so its still worth having.