Checking availability/redeeming on DL/US using MP miles
 

Hi all --

I'd like to go from SFO/SJC-ORD from 8/8 to 8/10 using MP miles. UA is showing no availability with Saver awards. I could go for a Standard award, but I'd rather not spend the extra miles if avoidable.

From people's experiences, would I stand a better chance with DL or US?

And more importantly, is there anyway to check availability/book online for these awards? UAL.com only gives you flights on their metal. I tried calling UA's MP awards line, but they seem to be down (I get a busy signal, and get booted off after a minute). DL and US tell me that I need to call UA to book.

Thanks for any help!

[This message has been edited by Ryu2 (edited 08-01-2003).]

Yes, you have to book through MileagePlus if you are using United miles. One problem booking on Delta is that you can only book on Delta metal, not contract carriers.

I recently booked a FF ticket from Bozeman to Sacramento on Delta with no trouble for Friday/Sunday travel when United showed nothing for weeks. Normally wouldn't use FF miles for such a short trip, but prices out of Bozeman to anywhere are more than most transcon fares.

One win is no guarantee, but it does show that it is at least possible.

Bruce

Do you have a Delta Skymiles number and PIN? If so go to the Delta website and try to book an award ticket for your routing to see if any seats are available. I would assume if Delta has award seats that you should be able to book thru United using your UA mileage. Give that a try