Originally Posted by
guv1976
Depending on Business Class redemption availability on the date that the OP will be traveling, he might also consider flying into EWR or JFK, taking the train to Penn Station Manhattan, and then taking one of the several daily Amtrak services from Manhattan to Albany/Rensselaer station. The train ride typically takes just 2.5 hours, and is usually reasonably priced. Plus, the OP would save 7,500 Avios. In my mind, that would be a better alternative than flying LHR-IAD, and then having to connect to DCA-ALB.
I had to get to Albany a few weeks ago and seriously considered taking this train option but in the end I picked up a car in EWR and drove which took less than 3 hrs. I was under time pressure and this was the quickest way but if doing this again I think overnighting in NYC the night previous and taking the train would be a relaxing way to do this.