Originally Posted by
restlessinRNO
Are there better options? Out of interest I decided to check coach fares for the dates I've booked to attend OzFest#5, May 16->26.
UA SFO-SYD $1571 (fare=W), $2726 (fare=H).
AC YVR-SYD $1873 USD
QF SFO-SYD $1126 ("sale" fare, not upgradable), $2146 ("supersaver", upgradable).
Now I am unfamiliar with AC and QF FF upgrade eligibility rules, but I don't think they allow upgrades to C on booking as UA does. So I don't think there are better options.
To my mind, the better options are the non-direct ones.
Such as NZ via AKL (better aircraft, service and prices) or via Asia (again better aircraft, service and prices).
If you are in a desperate hurry to go non-stop then my options won't help, but taking a one or two stop via NZ or Asia will soothe the nerves and improve the bank balance (one could also fly UA ex SIN, BKK or HKG and be upgraded also)...
Just my 2 cents worth, but as I said, I don't fly UA ex SYD any more. And I'm happy (and wealthier)...