Originally Posted by
DownUnderFlyer
I think, this is not 100% correct. DEL-ORD allows you to bypass Europe. You can do North America - India - Australia - North America as a DONE3 without touching and paying for Europe.
You're partly right - you don't touch Europe but you must pay for it, as ORD-DEL is regarded as transatlantic. OW won't budge on the required progression between Regions I-II-III and two transoceanic sectors.
Your idea about a 3-continent fare that includes the SWP is incorrect however. Here's the rule:
(m) Nonstop transatlanticTravel on AA between DEL and ORD is permitted.
For travel ex South America/South West Pacific – when this service is utilised a minimum of a 4
Continent Fare must be charged.
For travel ex North America/Asia – when this service is utilised a minimum of a 3 continent fare must
be charged.
Every attempt that I'm aware of to include Africa, SWP or S. America in a 3-continent RTW has been denied by the issuing airline.