Originally Posted by
jiejie
I can absolutely believe that for this period in August, there are already no mileage seats available TPAC in economy. Tons of vacationing families and university students are headed back to the USA before start of school. And most anybody wanting to use awards, miles, etc. knows to grab early for August. That's why I asked earlier if you had any flexibility on your return to push it a few weeks out into September.
I'm nearly positive that I could find some FRA routings that work in economy (PVG-FRA is wide open, there are a dozen+ flights between FRA and the US, and you can also connect in Europe). But, one often needs to search segment by segment. Technically, US doesn't permit Asia to USA via Europe (which is why some agents won't suggest it), but if you spoon feed them flight numbers (with open seats), they will oblige more often than not.
For business class, availability in August seems pretty good (based on two searches: HND-LAX and BKK-LAX). My first search (PVG-LAX) came up empty, which surprises me in light of the amount of competition on the route; my theory here is that there is a good chance UA will end up delaying its implementation or scrapping it altogether.
Back on topic, I am willing to bet one of those big Paulaner beers that I could find a viable *A award itin in Y between Shanghai and some place in the USA within 5 days of August 14.