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Going to Santiago for work.

Have been given the choice of business class on AA, LAN or Delta. Travel times are similar, with change of planes in Dallas, Lima and Atlanta respectively.

Would appreciate opinions about which airline is the best for this route.

Gardyloo

If it was me, I'd (a) sign up for the Platinum Challenge with AA (see the AA board at flyertalk.com for details) then (b) book the AA codeshare flight number on the Lan flights. The Lan route is the fastest, and when you get back you'll have Platinum FF status on AA.

I believe LA 601 (AA 7709) just stops for fuel at LIM, with no change of equipment.

crosscheck

Thanks, Gardyloo. You really know your flights!

I have already qualified for gold challenge this year. Looks like this single trip will be enough for Platinum.

Just checked and the LAN direct flight to Santiago with stop in Lima is not listed as a codeshare on the AA site. The return flight is. Will investigate further.

Gardyloo

If you don't need to challenge up to Plat, then don't worry about the AA flight nos. - you'll get full AA credit on the Lan flight nos. anyway.

The rule changed this year that challenges are only allowed using AA metal or AA flight nos. on partners.

crosscheck

Thanks so much for your help.

Doesn't hurt to go for the Platinum just for the extra miles alone. Asked the people ticketing me in Santiago find out about the código compartido.