Continental has a published policy which limits BF availability more than 30 days out. It has been in effect for years. If you don't like it, take your business elsewhere.
As for NIPS, I used my two-person NIP to Europe in 1998, and my solo NIP to Europe in 1999. Only reason my Hawaii NIP wasn't used was because I never tried.
And if you really want to get to Europe but don't want to fly coach, try NW.