I appreciate this thread was setup primarily for the miles based opportunities but I have a question about OW opportunities for getting there.

Looking at the deals at the moment I could get MXP-LHR-HEL-KIX-HND (BA/AY/JL) return for c 1.9k in J, however there would then be the faff of the positioning elements as I would have to get there from EDI. Would yield 600 tp so a sub optimal tp run if you like. This is if course dependant on such a fare being available come October - November time

Leaving from the UK even looking at the J options it's likely that prices will be 3k+ in J.

What looks the best option would be W, the ex EDI options are around 1.5k+. However I note that CX W MAN-HKG-HND is 1.2k. Flight times look good, 2 hour connection going out 4.5 hour going back. Am OWS so will have the benefits of the lounges at HKG.

The question I have is how does CX W on the A350 compare to the BA 777 option going HND. Also in terms of chances of an upgrade is there any difference.