Hello, travel enthusiasts! If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring through the skies in the unparalleled comfort of ANA (All Nippon Airways) Business Class, you’re in for a treat. Did you know you can unlock this luxurious experience using Virgin Atlantic Flying Club rewards? It might sound surprising, but it’s possible!
The partnership between Virgin Atlantic and ANA is a golden ticket for savvy travelers. With Virgin points, you can book those coveted ANA flights, giving you access to some of the most sought-after business and first-class seats in the air. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your travel without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re planning a round-trip to Japan, exploring options for one-way trips with connecting flights, or dreaming of that elusive first-class experience, this blog is your roadmap. We’ll uncover the secrets of using Virgin Atlantic rewards to book ANA flights and snag those amazing deals.
Ready to unlock the secrets to flying high in style? Buckle up, and let’s go!
Understanding Virgin Atlantic Rewards and ANA Partnership
Diving into the world of airline partnerships and rewards programs can sometimes feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube. But don’t worry, I’m here to simplify things! Let’s unravel the magic of how Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and its partnership with ANA can unlock amazing flight experiences.
Virgin Atlantic points are incredibly valuable
Think of them as the golden key to luxurious travel adventures. And one of the best adventures you can embark on is flying ANA Business Class or even, dare we dream, ANA First Class! These experiences are often associated with hefty price tags, but not when you utilize the power of points.
The partnership between Virgin Atlantic and ANA is your backstage pass. Virgin’s connection to ANA grants you access to those coveted premium cabins where comfort and service reign supreme. Whether you’re aiming for round-trip awards, one-way tickets, or even multi-city itineraries with connecting flights, this partnership opens up a world of possibilities.
Why choose ANA?
ANA was ranked 3rd in the 2023 Airline of the Year award by SKYTRAX
ANA continually ranks among the world’s top airlines, renowned for its exceptional service that blends Japanese hospitality with unmatched attention to detail. Imagine spacious seats that become lie-flat beds, gourmet meals showcasing the best of Japanese and international cuisine, and an entertainment selection to make the hours fly by. Flying ANA Business Class elevates your journey to Japan (or beyond) – it’s not just transportation, but a luxurious start to your adventure.
How Many Virgin Miles Does an ANA Flight Cost?
Virgin Atlantic uses a zone-based system for award flights on ANA. This means the number of miles needed depends on where you’re starting and where you’re going. You can find their award chart on their website for specific costs.
Good News: Virgin Atlantic allows one-way award flights with those miles! These cost half the price of a round-trip ticket. This flexibility is great for customizing your trip or for using points on just one leg of your journey.
Beyond Japan: Mixing Awards for Maximum Flexibility
While Virgin Atlantic awards initially focus on flights directly to and from Japan, that doesn’t limit your adventure!
Here’s how to get creative:
- Customize Your Comfort: Fly to Japan in First Class and return in Business Class to stretch your points.
- Multi-Stop Trips: Combine awards! Fly US to Japan, then use a separate award (Virgin or another program) to continue from Japan to Europe.
- The One-Way Advantage: Since Virgin allows one-way awards for half the round-trip cost, it’s easy to tailor your itinerary.
Approximate Point Costs:
- US mainland/Europe to Japan:
- Business Class: 45,000 – 47,500 points one-way
- First Class: 72,500 – 85,000 points one-way
Important Note: While First Class awards aren’t quite as strong a value as they once were, Virgin Atlantic still offers a compelling option, especially when paired with a good transfer bonus to boost your balance.
Why Booking ANA with Virgin Atlantic is a Smart Move
Dreaming of the ultimate comfort of ANA’s Business Class or First Class? While you can use your Amex points with ANA directly, there’s a much easier way to make it happen – Virgin Atlantic! Here’s why it’s so smart:
- Find Those Seats: Award seats on ANA flights can be hard to come by. Virgin Atlantic often has access to more options, especially in those sought-after premium cabins.
- Points Move Fast: Say goodbye to waiting days for Amex points to transfer to ANA. With Virgin Atlantic, it happens almost instantly! Perfect for last-minute bookings or snagging those seats before they vanish.
- One-Way Freedom: Want a one-way ANA flight? Virgin makes it possible! ANA usually requires round-trips, but this flexibility is perfect for those multi-stop adventures.
- Amazing Help: Virgin Atlantic has some of the best customer service around. Their reps know their stuff and can guide you from transferring those points all the way to securing that dream seat. And even though changes require a call later, the friendly help makes it easy.
Think of booking ANA through Virgin Atlantic as your shortcut to luxury travel. You’ll have an easier time finding great flights, and the whole process is less stressful. It’s the key to turning those points into unforgettable experiences!
Earning Virgin Atlantic Miles
1. Smart Spending: Credit Cards Are Your Key
- Virgin Atlantic’s Own Card: A great starting point, offering a welcome bonus and solid earning potential on your everyday spending.
- The Power of Transferring: This is where things get exciting! Programs like American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards, and Bilt Rewards let you transfer points directly to Virgin Atlantic, often at a fantastic 1:1 ratio. Keep an eye out for transfer bonuses that supercharge your balance even faster.
- Capital One’s Indirect Route: While not a direct transfer, Capital One has partnered with Virgin Red (Virgin’s loyalty program). Transfer Capital One mile to Virgin Red (1:1) and then onwards to your Virgin Atlantic Flying Club account.
2. Take to the Skies: Earn as You Fly
Every flight on Virgin Atlantic, or partner airlines like ANA, adds to your balance. Don’t forget to add your Flying Club number to every reservation – those miles add up quickly!
3. Promotions & Partners: Everyday Earning
- Virgin Atlantic Promos: Watch for special offers that give you bonus points for everything from flights to hotels and rental cars.
- Little Things Add Up: Dining programs and shopping through Virgin-specific portals earn bonus points on purchases you’d make anyway.
4. Hotel Points to the Rescue:
Sitting on a mountain of hotel loyalty points? Many programs, like Marriott Bonvoy, allow you to transfer those to Virgin Atlantic. While the ratios might not always be ideal, it can be that final top-up you need before booking that dream award flight.
The Big Picture: Think of earning miles like a puzzle. Each method – smart spending, flights, promotions, and even hotel points – adds pieces. Soon, that image of you relaxing in an ANA Business Class or First Class seat, enjoying incredible service en route to Japan or beyond, will become crystal clear. Remember, you’re not just saving for a flight, you’re investing in experiences that will leave lasting memories!
Let me know if you’d like to discuss any specific earning strategies!
Planning Your ANA Adventure
You’ve got the Virgin Atlantic points, now let’s turn them into an incredible ANA experience! Here’s your pre-flight checklist to ensure a smooth booking process and maximize your chances of snagging those premium seats in the sky.
- Timing is Key: Booking award flights, especially those fancy business class seats or the elusive first-class ones, is all about timing. Get a head start by planning 6 to 12 months in advance. This is especially important for popular routes from cities like San Francisco, or major East and West Coast hubs.
- Map It Out Before dreaming of Tokyo’s lights or the serenity of Kyoto’s temples, familiarize yourself with ANA’s route network. They fly directly to Japan from several North American cities, plus offer connecting options. Use ANA’s website or their partner airlines’ websites to see where they fly. This knowledge helps you build the best itinerary.
- Embrace Flexibility: If you’re determined to use those Virgin Atlantic points for ANA, keep your travel dates flexible. Weekdays are typically easier to find space on than weekends. Being open to different dates might be the deciding factor in securing your dream seat.
- The Award Space Hunt: Finding the right award availability is a bit like a treasure hunt. Use tools like ANA’s website, and websites of their Star Alliance partner airlines (like United or Air Canada) to search for award space. Look for both direct and connecting itineraries – sometimes those connecting flights are easier to get!
- Don’t Wait to Book: Award flights aren’t the time to procrastinate. Once you find that sweet spot of availability, act fast! Virgin Atlantic typically allows quick points transfers and booking, but desirable award seats can still vanish quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking ANA Business Class with Virgin Atlantic Miles
Booking your dream trip in ANA Business Class or even First Class with Virgin Atlantic miles is within reach! Follow this guide to smoothly turn those points into an incredible luxury experience.
STEP 1. Checking Award Availability:
This is the most important step! You need to confirm that award seats exist for your desired ANA flights. Here’s how:
- Websites to Use: Use ANA’s website or the websites of their Star Alliance partners (like United Airlines or Air Canada) to search for award availability.
- Be Flexible: Having wiggle room with travel dates massively increases your chances of finding those sought-after seats. Consider both direct and connecting flights, as the latter are often easier to find.
You can check ANA’s website, but we suggest using United Airlines’ site for a smoother experience. They’re partners with ANA, but United’s site tends to be more reliable. United Airlines
STEP 2. Transferring Points to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
You’ve found the perfect ANA award flight – now it’s time to make your Virgin Atlantic points balance reflect that! The good news is that Virgin Atlantic Flying Club partners with several major transferable point programs, giving you lots of options.
Important Note: Before you can transfer points, you’ll need to have a Virgin Atlantic Flying Club account. Opening one is free, but it can take a few days for the account to be fully active and able to receive point transfers. Plan ahead!
Key Transfer Partners:
- American Express Membership Rewards: Amex points transfer to Virgin Atlantic at a 1:1 ratio and are often one of the fastest ways to top up your Flying Club account.
- Chase Ultimate Rewards: Another great option with a 1:1 transfer ratio. Chase points also move into your Virgin account quickly.
- Citi ThankYou Rewards: Transfer at a 1:1 ratio, providing another way to boost your Virgin Atlantic balance.
- Capital One Rewards Transferring to Virgin Atlantic via Virgin Red: Capital One doesn’t directly transfer miles to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club. However, they partnered with Virgin Red, the loyalty program for Virgin companies including Virgin Atlantic. Here’s the process:
- Transfer Capital One Miles to Virgin Red: You can transfer your Capital One Miles to Virgin Red at a 1:1 ratio. This means 1,000 Capital One miles become 1,000 Virgin Points.
- Virgin Points to Virgin Atlantic: Virgin Points earned or transferred to Virgin Red can be used to book flights on Virgin Atlantic, alongside other Virgin companies.
- Bilt Rewards: Transfer their Bilt points to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club at a 1:1 ratio (1 Bilt Point = 1 Virgin Point)
- Marriott Bonvoy: While the transfer ratio isn’t always the best (3 Marriott points = 1 Virgin point), hotel points can be a valuable resource if you have a large stash.
To explore credit card rewards that can be transferred to ANA, you should look into this blog. It’s likely to have valuable information on maximizing your points for ANA flights.
Tips for a Smooth Transfer:
- Watch for Bonuses: Occasionally, transfer partners run promotions offering bonuses when moving points to Virgin Atlantic. Keep an eye on websites like The Points Guy for updates. A bonus could mean even more points for your ANA flight!
- Timing Matters: Transfers usually happen quickly, sometimes within hours. However, it can occasionally take a few days. Factor this in when planning your booking, especially if you’re targeting a flight that might fill up.
- Hold that Award: Virgin Atlantic can generally hold award bookings over the phone for up to 48 hours. This buys you a little extra time to complete your point transfer if needed.
- Enough for the Whole Trip: Make sure you have enough points in your transferable rewards program to cover the entire cost of your ANA award flight before initiating the transfer. You don’t want to get halfway through and find you’re short!
Important Note: This is not an exhaustive list of transfer partners. Virgin Atlantic also works with other programs, although they might be smaller banks or regional loyalty schemes. Always check Virgin’s website for the most up-to-date transfer partner information.
STEP 3. Booking the Flight:
Booking ANA awards with Virgin Points involves calling Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Club(800.862.8621), known for its competent agents. Once you’ve identified available flights, the booking process is usually smooth, though sometimes it may require a callback to confirm space availability.
- Call Virgin Atlantic: Most ANA awards need to be booked by calling Virgin Atlantic directly. This is especially true for complex trips or if their website isn’t showing availability.
- Be Patient & Prepared: Have your desired flight numbers, dates, and class of service (business or first class) at the ready. Virgin’s agents are usually excellent, but sometimes you might need to try a few times if the award space seems gone.
Tips for a Smooth Booking Experience:
- Plan Ahead: Research possible routes and dates well before calling Virgin Atlantic. The more options you have, the better.
- Persistence is Key: Award seats, particularly in popular cabins on desirable routes, are in demand. Keep checking if you don’t find something right away!
- Expect Some Fees: ANA awards via Virgin Atlantic are a fantastic value, but be aware they come with fuel surcharges on top of normal taxes and fees.
- Get Your Confirmation: Once booked, make sure you get that email with your ticket and, importantly, the ANA record locator. This allows you to manage your flight, choose seats, etc., directly on ANA’s website.
Changes and cancellations to ANA flights booked through Virgin Atlantic:
- Fee: Virgin Atlantic charges a $50 fee for changing or canceling an ANA award booking.
- Timing: You must make any changes at least 24 hours before your originally scheduled departure time.
- How to Change: While some things (seats, meals) can be done via ANA’s website with your record locator, actual flight changes must be done by calling Virgin Atlantic.
- Potential Additional Costs: Besides the Virgin Atlantic change fee, if your new flight has higher award costs, you’ll likely also need to pay the difference in points.
Virgin Atlantic’s website for the most up-to-date fee information and any specific rules regarding award changes: https://help.virginatlantic.com/us/en/policies/terms-and-conditions/flying-club.html
Booking ANA Business Class with Virgin Atlantic miles might take a bit of legwork, but the payoff is an incredible travel experience. You’ll unlock access to a level of comfort and service that makes flying feel like part of the vacation, not just the way to get there.
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Miles Expiration Policy
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club miles do not expire as long as you earn or redeem some miles within a three-year period. Here’s the breakdown:
- Activity is Key: To keep your miles active, you need to either earn or spend at least a small amount of Virgin Atlantic miles every 36 months.
- Earning Miles: Flying with Virgin Atlantic or their partner airlines, using their credit cards, shopping through their portal – these actions all count as earning activity.
- Redeeming Miles: Using your miles for flights, upgrades, experiences, or even donating them, all keep your account active.
Important Note: Even a tiny amount of activity, like earning a few miles from a hotel stay or spending a few miles on a magazine subscription, is enough to reset the clock and prevent your miles from expiring.
Navigating ANA Flight Bookings Amidst Rising Award Costs
The recent announcement from ANA about increased Business Class award costs for flights originating from the US to Japan and adjustments in redemption costs for flights on Star Alliance partner airlines signifies a pivotal moment for travelers. Effective from April 18, 2024, these changes necessitate a strategic reassessment of how to best utilize miles for ANA flights. Below is a refined strategy, factoring in these updates, to help you still achieve maximum value from your travel experience:
1. Booking Directly Through ANA Mileage Club
Updated Costs: Significant mile increases for Business Class round-trip flights from the US to Japan are now in effect:
- Low Season: From 75,000 to 100,000 miles.
- Regular Season: From 85,000 to 105,000 miles.
- High Season: From 90,000 to 110,000 miles.
While direct bookings may offer better seat availability, the new, higher mile requirements may deter some travelers.
2. Utilizing Star Alliance Partners
Increased Costs on Partner Flights: Star Alliance partners, including major airlines like United, Air Canada, and Lufthansa, have also seen a rise in redemption costs:
- US to Europe: A jump from 88,000 to 110,000 miles round-trip.
- US to Japan: An increase from 85,000-90,000 to 110,000-117,000 miles round-trip.
- US to Oceania: From 120,000 to 145,000 miles round-trip.
- US to the Middle East: 65,000 to 70,000 miles in Economy, 104,000 to 130,000 miles in Business, and 195,000 to 210,000 miles in First Class.
- US to Hawaii: 40,000 to 47,000 miles in Economy, 68,000 to 85,000 miles in Business, and 120,000 to 135,000 miles in First Class.
Strategy Shift: Given these adjustments, exploring options through partners such as Air Canada Aeroplan, United MileagePlus, and Avianca LifeMiles may present more favorable terms for your itinerary.
Tool Utilization: Platforms like AwardHacker become indispensable for efficiently comparing and selecting the best program for your needs.
3. Considering Purchases and Upgrades
Alternative Approach: With elevated award prices, buying an Economy ticket and upgrading with miles could emerge as a more accessible option for experiencing Business or First Class.
4. Adopting a “Hybrid” Booking Approach
Strategic Combination: A blend of Virgin Atlantic miles for one journey leg and a different Star Alliance program for the return could provide a savvy solution to circumvent escalated award costs.
Essential Updates and Advice:
- Broadened Impact: The revision in award costs extends beyond Business Class to First Class and additional destinations, emphasizing the importance of consulting the latest ANA award charts.
- Round-Trip Requirement: ANA’s stipulation for round-trip award bookings demands meticulous planning in light of new pricing structures.
- Transfer Timing: For instance, The lag in Amex points transfer to ANA underscores the potential risk of missing available award seats.
- Consolation: Despite widespread increases, Economy and Premium Economy award prices remain unaffected, offering a budget-friendly alternative.
Informed by these developments, travelers can still find rewarding opportunities with ANA flights and its Star Alliance partners. Adapting your booking strategies to this evolving award cost landscape is crucial for optimizing your travel experiences in the face of changing mile requirements.
For an alternative way to book ANA flights, check out this post. It might offer some useful tips and tricks for making your booking experience smoother and potentially more rewarding:
The Bottom Line
Our exploration of booking ANA Business Class with Virgin Atlantic rewards is complete! I hope this guide has equipped you with the knowledge and inspired a love of attainable luxury travel through savvy point strategies.
Elevated travel, especially in the unmatched comfort of ANA’s premium cabins, transforms a mere flight into a cherished part of your adventure. It’s the excitement of earning miles, the indulgence of lounge access, exquisite inflight dining, and the unparalleled comfort of soaring towards your dream destination.
This is just the start! Your Virgin Atlantic miles hold the key to a world of possibilities. Let each trip ignite your wanderlust, fueling not only incredible memories but a growing point balance that makes those dreams a reality.
Whether it’s Japan’s blooming cherry blossoms or any other destination within ANA’s reach, your next award booking awaits! The path to those sought-after Business Class or even First Class seats is clear and within your grasp.
