Originally Posted by
wiivile
So, in sum, there is no way to get a basic US-UK seat using British Airways Avios without paying exorbitant fees? I know you must think I'm a newbie, but from a newbie's perspective, that's utterly absurd. I hope BA gets eviscerated in this pending class action US lawsuit.
No. I disagree it is absurd, but agreeing or not it doesn't change the facts. Avios just doesn't seem to be good value for the specific thing you are trying to do, but it is good value for a whole load of other things.
Anyway, US-Ireland may be good enough since it is close enough to the UK. How do I find EI availability using Avios?
Here are two external links which discuss using avios on EI.
http://thepointsguy.com/2012/04/usin...el-surcharges/
http://www.headforpoints.com/2013/10...on-aer-lingus/
I believe ExpertFlyer, United.com or Qantas.com are ways to search for availability, although none of them may be entirely accurate. In order to properly check I think your only option is to call and ask. You will have to get a separately ticketed flight between Ireland and UK of course.