Question from a novice!
 

Hi, I am new to this site and would like some advice about how best redeem my SkyTeam airmiles. I have tried to book flights to the USA for summer 2010through Czech Airlines as I am an OK plus member. They keep telling me no seats available, but its a little frustrating as I cant find out when I could use them. So I am in a game of ping-pong with the guys there.

Perhaps I have left it too late as it is now Dec, but I would appreaciate any advice from fellow travellers on the best way to make the system work for you rather than against you.

Thanks

I could be wrong but I thought OK stopped all flights to the US (except maybe JFK which was due to stop as well?).

I think you should call CSA and specifically ask them to check KLM and Air France for flights. You can also request Delta. All airlines are part of SkyTeam and your SkyTeam miles (I'm assuming through CSA) should get you a ticket. Maybe no "low award milage" tickets are available for the dates you're looking for.

Your other option is to call KLM, Air France or Delta directly, ask them for award availability and figure out specific flights, dates and times. Call CSA back and tell them you know there's availability and you'd like to book the ticket with your CSA miles. They should be able to do this for you.

Maybe someone with more specific experience booking with CSA miles will also reply. But booking in December for next year is definitely not too late.

-RM

thanks Rob I will try it and see if it works

No luck on US flight with CSA
 

Unfortunately Czech Airlines do not seem to have access to Delta bonus tickewt flights even though they are available!!! Quite frustrating. Has anyone else had this issue?

thanks

Ok no longer flies to the USA.

What happens with these partnerships is that a certain number of award seats are available on partner flights. For example, you probably can use OK miles to fly with DL, but maybe OK is allotted only 6 award seats on the flight and those seats may already be claimed by other people. There still may be plenty of empty seats on the plane, just none designated to OK.

If your dates are flexible, you should be able to find something. Keep trying.