What is the TYO CTO talking about? Is she right?
 

Hi Everyone,

Q1: Calls AA's CTO in Tokyo to book my OWE ex-AKL. They said that since my first flight is with Quantas, I would have to book my OWE with Qantas...EVEN if I will fly AA the most.

Q2: Called Quantas ticket office to book my OWE ex-AKL. I was told that if I wanted to book the tickets more than 3 weeks before 1st departure, I would have to pay ex-Japan prices in Tokyo. If I book the tickets within 3 weeks, I can pay in AKL?

Q3: Qantas also said that I can not fly from GIG-GRU because it is a domestic flight. I can see two flights in Oneworld's schedule with IB and AA (code-share) from GIG-GRU, but she says that it is not possible because airlines only have flight rights on international flights?

I find this a bit strange. Has anyone booked a OWE in Tokyo before?

Alex

There are two flights: LA755 and LA751 that flys directly via GRU from RIO to SCL.

Would it be possible to book any of of thse flights and have a stop-over in GRU?

Alex

You are probably better off calling QF in New Zealand and getting them to set up the booking. Alternatively find a travel agent there who is willing to work with you remotely. I did this when OWE's were cheap ex-AKL, the agent IIRC was Corporate Travel. One phone call, a few emails and the booking was done. Paid by credit card - had to fax a picture id, front & back of card. They had the ticket waiting for collection at the QF ticket desk upon my arrival into AKL.

I have thought about going through a travel agent before. From what I remember, travel agents do not have the flexibility for open-dated segments and I may have diffficulty is I want a refund somewhere down the line if an unforseen event ends my journey early.

Am I right?

Alex

This is correct. You can only fly those routes as part of a continuing international flight.

Its also not unusual. There are may flights in North America and Europe with similar restrictions.