Open jaw booking query

[Kat78]

Hi, I’m planning on booking an open jaw ticket using Avios. Flying London/delhi and return male/london.

I know I need to call to do this but do I book the outbound online when they get released and call when return date released OR do I need to wait until both legs released and then call to make entire booking?

Thanks in advance

[Hbommie]

I can’t see a reason not to book the outbound when available and then call to add the return. The only issue may be if you have only one voucher and then can’t see additional availability on the return. But as it’s Malé I’m guessing you are ringing t355?

Good luck.

[NorthernLass]

OP doesn’t mention a voucher, so in theory this could happily be done 2 separate bookings.

However, the additional availability often isn’t released until weeks or months after T-355 so I wouldn’t bank too much on that. But yes Male will be a midnight/1 am job and you probably need to have a Plan B as well, unless you’re happy in economy.

[Kat78]

Sorry, should have said:…there is 3 of us and got one voucher but also ok in economy. I am new to this game so trying to learn fast!

What is t355??

Thanks

[Hbommie]

Flight availability is released 355 days prior to the date on BA

[NorthernLass]

You’ve picked a tough route for your first time, but it’ll be much easier if economy is an option. Read everything on here, especially the long “How to book the return at T-355 thread” as even economy seats are getting snapped up at peak times like school holidays.

[Kat78]

Thank you both. Second time booking, managed business class return for Japan for this year so very pleased with that!

So with the open jaw you reckon book the outbound trip as soon as available online and then ring up the exact hour released to add the return leg. If I have the points (not sure yet) could I book the return leg online and then just get the points from the use of voucher refunded – ie does the open jaw work the same as a ‘standard’ return.

Also, if I book an economy with points is it worth paying to choose extra space/emergency exit seats?

Thanks again!

[NorthernLass]

You have done really well there, @Kat78, were those midnight phone calls or did you get lucky?!

For MLE I would definitely be booking at T-355 – you could book both legs at this point but it might slow things down a bit if the agent has to grab 2 lots of seats for different destinations. You can do it online and get the avios back, as long as the itinerary fits the open jaw rules (which this one should).

IME exit rows are worth every penny, however are you travelling with a child or other person who wouldn’t be able to sit in those seats (under 12, IIRC)?

[Kat78]

Midnight calls for both! One from Florida so marginally less tiring!!🤣

Our son will be 15 so should be all good for the seats! 🤞