Without derailing the OP's question, let me jump in with a similar question. I also am new to points, at least airline points, and I will try to answer deant's questions.

Like OP DavisFLSt8, I would be looking for at least business class on international flights (between US and Europe). This would be for two travelers. Another goal would be at least first bag free, if that is not automatic with the business class ticket. I'm probably looking at a maximum of five round trips in the next four years, with little or no domestic airline travel. The first round trip (to Britain) might be next September, hence the interest now.

Locally, I have a choice of American, Delta, or United, and have a mild preference for them in that order but no strong feelings.

I have applied for and received four credit cards in the past two years, all from Chase (IHG, Hyatt, CSP changed to CFU, and CSR), and I have a total of about 140,000 UR points.

If there is some magic that would get me even one free flight, I would be delighted. My expectation is along the lines of reducing upgrade and baggage costs.

I haven't flown since 2008, so I expect my frequent flyer points have all evaporated. If there is chance of getting them reinstated, I'll dig out the frequent flyer numbers and make a phone call. I believe I had a few with Northwest and American, and maybe TWA. (Who swallowed TWA?)

Thanks for any insight.