A lot of availability tends to open up ~2 weeks out from flying -- obviously this requires some flexibility on your part, as there may be no availability on those particular flights, ever.

I recently managed to get F awards for 2 people, ~2 weeks out IAH-DME-SIN-MLE (last leg in J as it is only 2-class, rest F), and then F in CMB-SIN-HKG-SFO (first leg in J as it is only 2-class, rest F).

Within 2 weeks, there was basically availability on pretty much every day for 2 saver F, but there was obviously no way to know that for certain 4 months out.


Personally, I think using the points for 0.7 cents per mile is a HORRIBLE redemption, and would just pay cash for that flight in coach if you absolutely must be on those flights, and use the points for either an upgrade to J if it becomes available, or for another J or F award when you have flexibility.