As per this thread, I'm seeking the wisdom of my fellow CO folks to help with planning an upcoming trip. I'm looking to get the most miles in the best seats, preferably without killing myself in the process.

I'm travelling from IAH to Spokane (GEG) on Monday 26th April, working there on the 27th and 28th, then have the whole of Thursday 29th to get back. I could even get back to IAH on Friday morning on a redeye.

I actually only need to work 1.5 days of the Tuesday and Wednesday, in any combination, so I could arrive at lunchtime on the Tuesday, and leave on Wednesday evening, or alternatively arrive on Monday night and leave on Wednesday afternoon.
(My current default plan actually has me there on Monday night, and leaving Wednesday night, but I don't mind being there the whole time.)


Cost is not critical, but I would aim to keep it under $1000. I'd like routes where I can get a B or M automatic upgrade fare, failing that where there is a reasonable chance that FC won't be sold out. (I am usually top of the list for upgrades.)

I don't really want more than one connection on the outbound, as I need to maximise my chances of arriving on time.
On the return, I don't mind multiple of legs, but I would like to get home sometime.

I hate transcons redeyes, so I would rather avoid taking one (or more!) of those, but I wouldn't rule it out if someone can find something spectacular.


What I have found so far is:

Monday 26th April
CO 478 dep IAH 11.30 arr SFO 1.35pm (H Economy fare)
CO7603 dep SFO 3.52pm arr GEG 5.55pm (Canadair Regional)

Wednesday 28th April
CO7603 dep GEG 6.25pm arr SFO 8.29pm (Canadair Regional)

Thursday 29th April
CO dep SFO 10.55am arr IAH 4.38pm (Q Economy fare)

This comes in at around 750USD, and is 4734 miles.


I am sure someone can do better! I will cross-post to the Mileage Run discussion if you guys can't help, but I would rather give the CO people a chance to help out first!