Originally Posted by
iamcolumbus
Hello, I am a relatively new frequent flyer for UA. The reason I became a FF was because I now need to fly between China (primarily Beijing and Shanghai) and New York City quite often, 4-12 times a year. I am wondering what's the best way to get business class tickets on this route. Would appreciate your sharing of experience. Thank you!
One of the big things UA has going for it is it's network. From PEK UA files once daily to EWR and has daily connecting service to all NYC airports via IAD, ORD, SFO, and NRT. There is also daily service from PVG to EWR and connecting service to all NYC airports to ORD, SFO, and LAX.
I'm not sure what you mean by "what's the best way to get business class tickets". I'd suggest just buying them from United. You could always use
www.google.com/flights to compare fares if you want to. UA sells restricted business class tickets for this route. The number of seats are limited and generally have a 7-21 day advance purchase requirement. Mid-week flight usually have better availability.
If you're talking about upgrades, it's hard to answer. In short, unless you're elite (GS or 1K) it will be difficult to get free upgrades using miles (even then there is often a copay). Once you're 1K or GS you will get a handful of global upgrade certificates, but its still far from a guarantee. Sometimes, for all customers, UA offers the opportunity to buy-up to business from coach. This buy-up may or may not be at a discount and, again, is far from a guarantee.
Best advice is if you want to fly in business buy a business class ticket.