Originally Posted by
RedArrowX
Just tried that but seems I need a JL membership. Am I fine to just use the BA-OneWorld method instead?
If you are redeeming Avios, you may want to stick to the [Awards/BA-OneWorld] engine since it tracks seats available for Avios redemption. Well, at least in theory.
Originally Posted by
golfmad
I prefer the JL method because it shows you all the seats available or 0 if there are none available. This avoids the 'no seats/route too complex' message. Suggest you sign up for a free JL account. Costs nothing and lets you use the JL method.
As others have stated, the [Awards/JL-OneWorld] tends to be very accurate, especially for those of us trying to redeem AA miles for CX flights.
But one thing to keep in mind: Make sure you search segment-by-segment to avoid misapplied "married segments" logic and the like. The KVS User Guide/FAQ warns of this problem in general and gives a specific reminder for the [Awards/OneWorld] (aka Qantas) engine. It is longstanding, sage advice.
I haven't seen this problem on the JL engine before, but apparently it exists because I ran into it while researching a SGN-HKG-JFK trip for 2 on CX. A simple SGN-NYC search showed a single J seat, while SGN-HKG showed 4 and HKG-JFK showed 2. When I called to book today, the AA agent had the same problem until I asked nicely if she could check the SGN-HKG segment on its own. Seats were found, the trip was booked, and everyone learned something new.