oneworld FF colleagues,

I have struck a problem in trying to organise a QF FF points trip to ATH for my family, and would appreciate the assistance of more experienced and knowledgable forum members.

I will be in EUR on business in June, and would like to organise for my wife and daughter to join me for a vacation in France and Greece, using QF FF points in Y class. It seems I can get them on flights MEL-LHR or PAR using points, but not much further. Options seem to be to get them to LHR, PAR, or similar, then purchase a fare return from there.

I first attempted to book FF seats MEL-ATH about 7 months ago, but was told no Y class seats available LHR-ATH (J class available, but this would of course double the points cost )...

I have delayed booking the LH sectors hoping that availability would clear, but no luck, so I think it is about time to commit.

Any advice on alternatives for getting the family to ATH appreciated.

Cheers,

tb.

I'm not an expert on manipulating awards bookings so can't give any advice there. But as a BA Silver, I can't get any availability at all in July from London to Athens.

Athens is well served from London by both easyJet and BA, which are offering return prices on random dates in July for between �120 and �140 including taxes. That's a good price for that length of trip, but won't last forever.

Given they're flying in with QF and the BA flights depart from LHR, that might be your best choice. easyJet fly from LGW and Luton, but may be less understanding over luggage, delays etc. than a oneworld partner.

As gold, I see LHR-ATH availability every day in June. As blue, I see availability on 1,4,6,7,8,28 only

Thanks for this, and to Lux. I will check again.

Of course, I am a QF member, so not sure how my status equates to your Gold and Blue. I am 1w emerald, I believe.

Thanks again.

OW Emerald equates to BA Gold for lounge access etc., but for reward availability and other "perks" (e.g. op-up priority) BA will probably favour BA Gold over OW Emerald.

FewMiles' website has a comparison tool between various OW f/f programs.