Redeeming SkyMiles on Korean Airlines
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Aug 2005
Posts: 2,452
Redeeming SkyMiles on Korean Airlines
I'm thinking about using my DL miles to fly business class on the new A380 LAX-ICN on KE and was wondering what website (flying blue, delta.com) would show online availability for Korean Airlines so when I call DL to book I'll be sure those flights have space?
I tried Delta.com since I know it lists AF/KL flights using miles but it doesn't show any KE services. Is that right?
I tried Delta.com since I know it lists AF/KL flights using miles but it doesn't show any KE services. Is that right?
#4
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: HH Diamond, Marriott Gold, IHG Gold, Hyatt something
Posts: 33,571
I had no problem getting it. Wasn't even know about the KE A380, and was pleased to find that I had seats on it.
Just watch the blackout periods, and it's not that hard to get, in my experience.
Just watch the blackout periods, and it's not that hard to get, in my experience.
#6
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Los Angeles
Programs: Delta Kryptonium-Platinum Medallion, Hyatt/Hilton Diamond
Posts: 365
Like what people have already said, booking KE on DL is really hit or miss. I got lucky and the first agent I talked to found the availability that I saw for Feb 2012 on LAX-ICN.
Like always with Delta, try and try again and you'll eventually get a capable agent.
Like always with Delta, try and try again and you'll eventually get a capable agent.
#7
Join Date: Nov 2005
Location: on the path to perdition
Programs: Delta, United
Posts: 4,788
In a chat with a Delta CSA they noted that KE was on par with AF in terms of getting awards. Neither were great. Also one issue was that often on would get an award but then two week later is was canceled because it was a black out period.
#9
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Sep 1999
Location: New York, NY, USA
Posts: 12,490
Check www.koreanair.com. The peak season for KE members are blacked out for DL members. KE members pay 50% surcharge during peak season, no such option for DL members.
#10
FlyerTalk Evangelist & Ambassador: China
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: DEN
Programs: DL DM/MM, UA 1K, AA Exp, HH Dia, WOH Glob, IHG Plat, Marriott Gold, NA EE, Hertz PC
Posts: 17,423
#12
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2001
Programs: DL 1 million, AA 1 mil, HH lapsed Diamond, Marriott Plat
Posts: 28,190
Often? How many times have you had this experience directly?
#14
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: JAX / MUC / BER
Programs: DL DM, LH SEN, Mariott Titanium
Posts: 369
check the blackout dates and then use EF to look up availability. Call DL and tell the agent dates and flight numbers. DL inventory is more restrictive than KE so you can get a head start on what to look at. Hang up and call back if the DL agent is incompetent.
#15
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Connecticut
Programs: Delta Platinum Medallion, Crown Room Club Member, United Mileage Plus, HiltonHonors
Posts: 453
I've redeemed Skymiles twice for flights on Korean Air to New Zealand. I never had a problem, but made it a practice to call Korean first to find out availability before talking to Delta. I found it easier to have the information to simply give to the Delta agent rather than them trying to piece my itinerary together. Enjoy the trip as Korean offers a wonderful product.