Originally Posted by
Finkface
The point I was making is that the taxes and fees on a BA award from Canada are much lower than the same award from the US so the OP should try searching from Canada instead (which was what I suggested to him/her). See example below. The carrier imposed surcharge on a J class redemption from YVR is much lower than when departing from SEA. Total charges from YVR are $514; From SEA it is $888.
From YVR: $514
60,000 miles + $475.70
Carrier imposed surcharge $463.20
Partner award booking fee $12.50
Taxes and fees: $37.91
Canada Airport Improvement Fee AIF $18.20
Canada Goods And Services Tax GST On SQ Fee $0.91
Canadian Air Travelers Security Charge $18.80
From SEA: $888
60,000 miles + $862.50
Carrier imposed surcharge $850.00
Partner award booking fee $12.50
Taxes and fees $25.30
US int'l departure tax $19.70
US Sept. 11 security fee $5.60
Basic point is a very good one, thanks. Just note that the taxes and governmental fees are actually lower for the US departure. The difference is attributable to BA imposing a much higher surcharge on the SEA departure.