Originally Posted by Andrito

The problem with biting the bullet is that I'm planning to throw away the return leg of this trip for my son. I will have enough miles(about 150K coming in over the next 3 months) to get him an award J class coming back. Those tickets are much more convenient for me as our travel dates constantly change, so having a free change(as a Diamond) is crucial.

I could theoretically get him the same award J originating out of Europe but that means Im stuck paying $650 for every award ticket going forward, instead of $49.

You're right about the documentation. That is key. I've asked them to notate everything and they were OK with it. If, however, issues arise at the airport, I'll simply drop my M class and buy a T and sit with him in Y class. That way, unfortunately, everyone loses(except my wife who will be thrilled to be in J by herself )