United Offers Wide Open Economy Saver Award Space to Israel
United Airlines has opened up a rare opportunity for travelers to Israel with wide availability of Economy Saver award space, starting at just 28,000 miles each way.
- Plan Ahead: While the availability is currently wide open, it’s crucial to book as soon as possible. Award space can change rapidly, and what is available today may not be tomorrow.
- Consider Round-Trip Bookings: If you find availability for both outbound and return flights, booking a round-trip can often yield better value than one-way tickets.
- Plan Ahead:
- Flexibility is Key:
United Airlines has opened up a rare opportunity for travelers to Israel with wide availability of Economy Saver award space, starting at just 28,000 miles each way. This development is significant for points travelers looking to maximize their rewards.
What does this mean for your points?
The current availability of Economy Saver award space on United Airlines for nonstop flights between the US and Israel is a notable development, especially given the historical difficulty in finding such space. With United's 18 weekly flights from Newark to Tel Aviv, travelers can now secure flights for as low as 28,000 miles each way. This represents a sweet spot in the redemption landscape, as it allows for a relatively low mileage cost for a long-haul international flight.
How can you take advantage of this opportunity?
To make the most of this award space, travelers should consider the following strategies:
- Plan Ahead: While the availability is currently wide open, it’s crucial to book as soon as possible. Award space can change rapidly, and what is available today may not be tomorrow.
- Flexibility is Key: Being flexible with your travel dates can help you find the best availability. Use United's flexible date search feature to see a range of options around your desired travel dates.
- Consider Round-Trip Bookings: If you find availability for both outbound and return flights, booking a round-trip can often yield better value than one-way tickets.
Is it worth transferring points now?
For those considering transferring points from a credit card to United MileagePlus, this could be an opportune moment. United's awards are fully refundable until the time of departure, which means you can book your flight, hold it with miles, and reassess your plans without penalty. However, it’s essential to evaluate the following:
- Transfer Ratios: Ensure that the transfer ratio from your credit card to United is favorable. Many cards offer a 1:1 transfer ratio, but some may have different terms.
- Opportunity Cost: Consider what other redemptions you might be passing up by transferring your points now. If you have other travel plans in mind, weigh your options carefully.
What are the potential catches?
While this development is exciting, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Limited Availability: Although there is currently wide-open space, this could change. Monitor the availability regularly, especially as travel dates approach.
- Seasonal Demand: Depending on the time of year, demand for flights to Israel can fluctuate. Consider traveling during off-peak seasons for better availability and lower mileage costs.
- Fees and Taxes: Remember that while the miles may cover the cost of the ticket, you will still be responsible for any taxes and fees associated with the booking.
What are the best redemption sweet spots?
United's Economy Saver awards to Israel represent one of the best redemption sweet spots for travelers looking to visit this popular destination. Here’s how the math breaks down:
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- Mileage Cost: At 28,000 miles each way, a round-trip ticket would cost 56,000 miles, which is competitive compared to other airlines that may charge significantly more for similar routes.
- Cash Price Comparison: If the cash price for a round-trip ticket to Israel is in the ballpark of $800 to $1,200, redeeming 56,000 miles represents a value of approximately 1.4 to 2.1 cents per mile, which is solid for international travel.
- Alternative Routes: If you’re flexible, consider flying into nearby destinations and using ground transportation to reach Israel, which could open up additional award space options.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find available flights?
You can search for available flights on United's website or through the Pointify search tool, which allows you to compare award availability across multiple airlines.
Can I change my travel dates after booking?
Yes, United's award tickets are fully refundable until the time of departure, allowing you to change your travel plans without incurring fees.
What should I do if I can't find availability?
If you can't find availability on your desired dates, consider adjusting your travel dates or looking for flights with connections, which may offer more options.
Are there any additional fees when booking with miles?
Yes, while the miles cover the ticket cost, you will still need to pay any applicable taxes and fees, which can vary based on the route and ticket class.
About the author
Published
Zoheb Alvi covers points strategies, fare deals, and travel optimization for the Pointify blog.
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