Philip

Headed back to Italy in 2016. Business class either Spring or Fall -- our favorite times to go. I use to make my reservations 331 days ahead at 11pm. First minute of first day. Does not work well now.

Anybody have feel which month -- April, May, September or October has lower mileage requirements -- if any pattern at all? Which days of the week may have lower requirements? Is it better to make reservations 11 months ahead or wait until a later date?

Appreciate your sharing your experience. Thanks!

DRJ

Apparently, the only way to game Delta's new pricing system is to constantly monitor the website. Look at the Delta forum on flyertalk.com for in depth comments.

annw

I've had best luck with middle of the week tickets - Tu/Wed in particular. Was able to get Business Class tix 62,500 each way each for next March on United; also got one way taken care of on Delta this September with same number, 62,500, traveling out on a Wednesday.

Philip

Thanks everybody! I made reservations with AMEX miles through Delta on AF flights. Houston to Venice; Naples to Houston in the NEW Business Class seats. 125,000 each. That is the least I have paid in several years. Very pleased. Traveling on a Tuesday and returning two weeks later also on a Tuesday. Going mid April. That may be the major key.

annw

Congrats on the tix and hope you have a great trip!