Originally Posted by
mster
Ended up with Dragonair biz via HKG. No published routing CTU-HKG-PVG so it would've been 2x separate AA awards. Ended up booking using avios for 30k +$26. A330s on both segments with fantastic biz class service for 2+hr flights. Considered CZ/MU biz briefly since they have direct flights for only 17.5k DL in J but...
As a OW emerald it's hard to argue with a Cabana and a stop at the Wing's champagne bar
The big drawback is you are exposed to "Air Flow Control" (PRC lingo for Air Traffic Control induced by PLA or CAAC decisions) twice by this routing.
You must like the Regional J seat more than I - it's something I don't look forward to sitting on for potentially eight hours on the ground for plus the time in the sky - it's just a glorified Premium Economy seat.
Tarmac rule does not exist in HK/PRC. Since takeoff priority on HK/PRC is based on doors close they will herd everyone on board and keep them there. Hence we have a few cases where pax have taken over (Occupied?) the aircraft to force it back to gate but those will be met by armed intervention.