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Originally Posted by gya007
Originally Posted by
guv1976
While redeeming BA Avios for LAX-OGG-LAX on AA is the most economical method, if the OP has any interest in traveling to Europe or South America from LAX some time after returning home from Maui, AA's awards from Hawaii to Europe or South America (with a lengthy stopover in LAX) can be had for 17,500 or 20,000 AA miles, depending on final destination. (Of course, more miles would be needed to get back to LAX from Europe or South America.)
Guv - this is interesting. I don't see an ex-Hawaii award chart...which states this clearly (17.5k /20k). Where can I see the possible destinations? TIA
-G
For inter-continental redemptions, Hawaii is considered part of AA's "North America" zone. So just look at the partner award chart to see the mileage requirements. But to get a free stopover at LAX, you would have to subsequently fly on a direct flight (nonstop or through) from LAX to the other continent. (Your trip would not necessarily have to end in the first foreign city; you might be able to connect there to another destination.)
AFAIK, these are the direct-flight options from LAX to Europe/South America:
AA/BA to LHR;
IB to MAD;
AB to TXL and/or DUS;
LA to LIM (nonstop) or SCL (direct)
Some of this service may be seasonal. Avoid BA because of high surcharges.