Securing JASA strategy

[cjd600]

Hi All,

I will be looking to secure 2 x JASA's SYD-LAX around March (for travel in March 2014).

Due to the uncertainty of availability, I appreciate flexibility of travel dates is necessary.

So, I intend to look for the JASA's from a week or two before my 'ideal' departure date award release.
Is the best strategy to lock in the JASA's immediately if they do appear, and then check each day as the 'ideal' travel date approaches for U class release?
I can then immediately,through MMB change flights to the 'closer' date?
Is this the best approach?
Can I only change through MMB once, and then need to get on the phone for any subsequent changes?

On a slight side note, does expertflyer have any facility to report Award class releases for a certain date that have been taken up,ie not now available?
Or can it only show remaining availability?

Any tips appreciated.

Cheers!

 

[serfty]

For several weeks before your target purchase date at 10am EST (11am summer time in SYD, MEL) check for U class on your target flights.

Check on QF11, QF12, ,QF15, QF16, QF107, QF108, QF93 & QF94 - that far out there will generally be plenty of U availability for connecting flights.

Log the availability over those dates as well as the day of the week. Also, log who the availability may change over time.

Know your fare rules (some have change fees, some have no change fees but do have services fees).

You are generally given ONE opportunity to complete an online change to a your booking - after that you need to call.

(Only remaining availability in my experience.)

 

[cjd600]

Thanks Serfty.
Am on at 11am each day to check the days release.

The fare rules are crucial.
Will also be looking to keep an eye on P availability to see what the cash charge from U to P is after U have been booked....

I appreciate your input.

Cheers