British Airways has launched a 50% off sale for people using Avios to redeem in World Traveller (economy) to certain destinations.
| Destination | Regular Price (rtn) | Sale Price (rtn) |
| Boston | 26,000 | 13,000 |
| Dubai | 26,000 | 13,000 |
| Fort Lauderdale | 32,500 | 16,250 |
| Hong Kong | 39,000 | 19,500 |
| Johannesburg | 32,500 | 16,250 |
| Los Angeles | 32,500 | 16,250 |
| New York | 26,000 | 13,000 |
| Punta Cana (Dominican Republic) | 32,500 | 16,250 |
| Shanghai | 39,000 | 19,500 |
| Tampa | 32,500 | 16,250 |
| Toronto | 13,000 | 13,000 |
The Avios prices above are exclusive of any taxes, fees and charges which can mount up to around £250 in some cases – so still a substantial amount.
In order to get these prices you must book directly with British Airways between 30th November and 17th December 2017, and travel between 4th January and 30th June 2018.
Interestingly, it applies to both peak and off-peak Avios prices so there is potential for some value here, particularly if you’re looking at doing a one-way flight where prices are high.
However, taking a look just now at BA.com for a one-way flight from Boston to London on a random date in mid-March, it appears not to be live yet.
The screenshot shows the old pricing, rather than 6,500 Avios plus the £135 in taxes which it should now be with this promotion. For that pricing, on a short day-flight from the East Coast of the US back to the UK, I think this could be an excellent use for Avios even with the fuel surcharges.
I get the discounted Avios pricing, but the taxes are around £350 (return)…