I agree. I do WAS-SA at least once a year, will be three times this year. Generally I prefer going through Europe on LX or LH. However on the last trip I did IAD-JNB on the 346 with the 1hr fuel stop and it was plenty enjoyable in C you have a lot of space and as mentioned its a full flat bed vs. LH slanted. Hard product is pretty good, service wasn't anything to write home about.

That being said LH A380 C class isn't horrible if you want to go that route, just no the best. LX is nicer with the mini cabin if you end up in C not F.

You can also do JNB-IST-IAD now with a 5hr layover. Quicker layovers through LHR, but avoid the SAA a343 on the LHR route if you are leaving from CPT. The FRA connection always seems long for me on the return as does the ZRH. However ZRH it's easy to go downtown and stretch your legs (though the UA department terminal back to the states right now has no lounge).

As said avoiding JNB would be preferable.

On award trips I've been offered various connections in Africa through ACC, LOS and Egypt but never taken them up on the offer.

IME I have seen more award tickets on UA/LX/TK routes rather than LH/SA.


I have never done the trip through Asia, but I am assuming from IAD you would exceed the maximum miles?