Originally Posted by
tedster102
I am completely new to this world. I have sufficient points to fly business Malaysia, India and back to Montreal Canada. In trying to do this on my preferred dates, I seem to only be able to get a selection of flights that call for "full fare" or restricted" Business class. I also seem to not be able to choose airlines eg Qatar, Turkish etc. So what is the drill? Do I have to call and airline and tell them I want to use AA points? Do I call AA and do the same? Any help anyone can give me will really be appreciated. I am a senior senior citizen and this will likely be my last big trip.
Award booking is a fairly complex system. There is lots of information here but it will require good amount of reading and learning for a newcomer.
AA website allows you perform a rudimentary search for awards online (on their website) and does not allow to pick a preferred airline, routing etc. Not directly atleast...
Calling customer service can be slightly better. But your results will be only as good as the knowledge of agent on the phone. Sometimes you can have a very helpful agent and sometimes not so much.
As one of the posters recommended, it might be worth it for you to engage an award booking service. Some of them are very well familiar with knowledge of various airlines, routes, business/first cabin availabilities etc. If you are just looking to book one big trip, it might be worth your time to get a quote from them.
Some recommendations and reviews
Good luck.