I have read through the Japan and HKG threads on this subject, but wanted to create another thread to help me get to either Chengdu or Xi'An. I've done a bit of research, just wanted to see if I was missing other options.

1. Atlanta->Xi'An on Korean Air seems to be my best bet. Because of my dates (late June, early July) it looks like it is 200K SkyPass miles and about $400 for First Class, passing through Seoul. I currently have only around 300K miles so I would have to go First Class on one trip and Business Class on the other (2 people).

2. Can any other airlines get me into Chengdu? I've flown Cathay several times using AAdvantage Miles and it has been a simple and relatively cheap award. Is it equally cheap/easy using British Airways Miles? Does BA charge fuel surcharges on Cathay flights? NYC->HKG->Chengdu would be my preferred way to get there, I'm just not sure how to do it.

3. Any other ways?

Thank you!

UA flies SFO-CTU on a 789. Numerous Asian carriers will offer connecting itineraries.

No, that will be ridiculously expensive using Avios.

KE is far and away the best option in terms of premium cabin award availability.

Thanks for the reply. I don't normally fly UA, so I will look into the flights to Chengdu. Great option. Thank you.

If you can't get to CTU on a single award, you can always consider one award to HKG and then a short-haul Avios award on CX/KA HKG-CTU.