premium economy options to europe (non-QF destinations)

[aspro2]

Looking at a fortnight in Paris (ex MEL) and have been investigating mild improvements in comfort for the trip. I hope the list proves useful for others, and of course I'd appreciate feedback for my own decision.

No premium economy sales of any attractive value. QF/AF is over $4800, VA/EY is around $3200, but only if I fly via SYD and connections in AUH can suck. JL is $3070 via SYD, with a change of airport Narita/Haneda (and some reluctance given current probs), and there's an AF/JQ combo for $3700 (the JQ sectors are B class, which I believe is normal economy).

On the other hand, I could cobble together

• AirAsiaX Premium for $3600 (the sector KUL-PAR is crazy - A$1200)
• QF award flight to SIN (Y - seats available, 60k points) + AF Premium Voyageur ex SIN for A$2200
• JQ-Star class (current sale) to SIN + AF Premium Voyageur ex SIN for total $3200.

This last option seems the best value and comfort, but for the problem of interlining baggage in SIN -- I'm right in thinking JQ<>AF will be out of the question? Transit times are 6 hrs outbound and 3 hrs back.

Any thoughts?

 

[Sprucegoose]

Is the JAL reluctance only due to current problems? When are you traveling?

 

[aspro2]

Is the JAL reluctance only due to current problems? When are you traveling?

Travelling May or June. The JAL reluctance is primarily due to the amount of hassle, having to fly via SYD, then having a long transfer between NRT and HND (outbound > 7hrs), and (just realised) JL departs SYD too early to make a morning connection from Melbourne possible. Current events are a contributor as I need to make the decision in the next few days.