How to get maximum EQMs to Shanghai?
 

I'll be going from CLE-PVG from approximately April 1-9. I'd like to fly most of the way there on CO to maximize EQMs ... say CLE-EWR-NRT-PVG (with that last leg on ANA). Expedia prices this at $930, but there seems to be no way to do this on CO.com, unless I break it into CLE-EWR-NRT ($895) on CO.com plus NRT-PVG on Expedia ($762), for a total of $1,657!

I'd like to get as many EQMs at 100% as possible, but maybe that's impossible on a cheap fare like this? Or is there something that I'm missing?

Any help is appreciated. :)

I think this will be a tough one to book on CO - have you considered using NW for the trip and making sure the fare class gets you the 100% EQMs?

NW has flights available under a Q fare for $925.02 at www.nwa.com. This will allow you to earn full EQMs for the entire trip instead of just to Japan.

You might be able to play around with CAK, ERI or TOL to increase segments and add an additional 1000 EQMs to the trip.

You can try calling CO and they may be able to book the ANA portion for you. I've done this before (booked non CO or partner flights) and the fare codes qualified for 100% EQM. Also, I did the same trip from Newark and used Expedia or Travelocity (forgot which) and the fare code qualified for 100% EQM on the CO parts.

You will best off on NW. CLE-DTW/MSP-NRT-PVG. Book in Q and you will get full EQMs. Also - look for the A330 to NRT - better IFE.

The Flying Dutchman
 

You may want to consider KLM. Full EQM credit on any class and the fly non-stop into PVG from AMS.

That is an interesting concept - I would be curious as to the cost and time differential. It also can be a pain getting to AMS on KLM equipment when you fly out of Cleveland, though not impossible.

Thanks, all, great ideas ... I'll start checking them out!

-Paul