Thanks for the smart advices.. a lot of work but I have to get this in. I tried the AA flight ORD-BOM and there was no availability... It sucks bcs I am trying to conquer something that given lack of true time dedication seems nearly impossible. I checked availability on that flight for my dates and its wide open so Im guessing at some stage they will release some award seats... Guessing is the key.

Currently in Kiev, so apologize for belated reply. The people asking what I do for a living I rather abstain from divulging, hope this is understandable. (Got numerous PMs about what I do for a living...).

Ill keep you posted, but ST seems not an option as we really would like to arrange that flight to BOM as it would suit us perfectly. If not, I reckon we might have to purchase full fare J and accumulate more miles...