Originally Posted by
view-with-a-room
450K, not $450. Search for flights to Japan and the range is anywhere from 60K to 450K. One day it is 60K and the next day is it 450K. 450K miles isn't a good value, regardless of the destination or class of service. I wouldn't hesitate to book 180K if the destination and date of travel were without flexibility.
And yes, flying via LHR and / or BA results in fees and taxes found no where else.
I'm confused by your post: the OP never said that he was quoted 450K miles for his Business Class roundtrip to India; he said 180K (miles, not Loyalty Points) plus $400 (or possibly $450?) cash.
As for award travel to Japan, a one-way, Business Class award between North America and Japan will always price at exactly 60K AAdvantage miles whenever at least one of the flights is on JL. Any other redemption rate -- higher or lower -- would only be on an all-AA-metal itinerary.