Not sure if there has been a comparable situation to this ever (where some destinations are not flying but others are) - if we are flying business/first on an award, if there is actual availability out of an other airport at the cash rate but not award, will emirates rebook? My guess is only if there was another award available, but this is just the strangest situation I feel like they should be able to make an exception.

If this is not a possibility, does anyone know how fast the online emirates refund system works? I think I wouldn't do this until we find out what happens to February, which will be soon, but I don't want to refund it if it will take forever. My reason to refund would be, I'd hope for awards out of another U.S. airport to pop up before my travel date. Otherwise, I don't want a refund but to hold onto my ticket in case there is a sudden change in flights.

Final question - if we cancel a flight and get a refund, would we also get a refund of points spent on an upgrade award?