Originally Posted by
Barkinpark
I want to travel from the US to HKG using my United miles. The only saver option for Biz class is on EVA Air via Taipei. Currently, TPE is closed to foreigners (I am one), even for transit.
I am hoping that in fall 2022, it will be open for transit.
I understand that United charges $100 if an award ticket is cancelled within 30 days of travel.
So, for my case, if Taipei still doesn't open up for transit within this time frame and I have to cancel my flight, I would like to get this fee waived.
I called the MP 1-800 number twice and spoke to two agents. One said that I would be entitled to a refund, but I would have to ask for it retroactively. The other told me that United is not charging cancellation fees for now, but he doesn't know when this policy lasts till. Also, when fall comes and TPE is still not open, then United will rebook me on a different flight to HKG.
So, should I still go ahead with this booking? Who should I trust? Two agents said different things (surprise, surprise). I will need to transfer Chase points to United and I don't have an alternative use for these points for now.
If you book now, they can't add on cancellation fees later. The rules when you purchase prevail.
Whether they will rebook you is the more important question. The free cancellation is great, but are you ok cancelling the trip if that happens?
Personally I would never transfer Chase pts to UA (they are far too valuable) but that's another matter.