Originally Posted by
tth6133
This is somewhat off topic, but might be useful to people who are deciding where to credit the flight portion of TPs they're about to purchase. Each frequent flyer program has its pros and cons, of course. Here's a brief summary of the four programs most often used for TP transfers:
1) AS - Pros: Currently the most valuable currency. Great for transpacific flights (on CX, JL, etc). Stopover on one-way flights. Good domestic flights (including Hawaii) if you live on the West Coast. Cons: Award availability sometimes scarce on partners. Devaluation is likely on the horizon soon.
2) UA - Pros: Lots of partners. No fuel surcharges. Excursion perk for those can take advantage of it. Short distance intra-region flights outside of US. Cons: Awards on partners cost more in J/F.
3) AC (AP) - Pros: Generous stopover rules on RT flights. Reasonable award pricing on transatlantic flights. Cons: Fuel surcharges on its own metal and most partners. Uncertainty beyond 2020. Miles expire in just 1 year and not as easy to extend for those not living in Canada.
4) BA (Avios) - Pros: Great for short-distance direct flights (especially outside of US). Cons: Exorbitant fuel surcharges (except in regions where they're prohibited). Expensive for long-distance flights in J/F.
This is a good breakdown, but I would add two things to this.
1.) For AC, I don't think it's too hard to extend your miles. a.) You can get the TD card and/or b.) AMEX MR are a partner and you can transfer over at any time. Both options will extend your expiration date.
2.) There is still pretty good value with AA miles too. In fact, I'd prefer AA miles over BA avios. Yes, the availability for their own flights are pretty bad, but there are some solid options on partner flights. Especially on EY, QR, CX, JL, and even IB. You do have to do a more legwork though and it pretty much always involves calling, but some good options for sure.