I am still trying to figure out how widespread this is. However, I wanted to share my knowledge so OMAAT readers could hopefully secure some transatlantic award tickets. This was brought to my attention by a reader.Lufthansa first-class awards 15+ days beforeLufthansa used to only make first class award seats available for members of frequent flyer programs of partner airlines within 15 days of departure. Members of Lufthansas Miles & More program, however, had access to these seats much earlier in advance and with significant fuel surcharges.Lufthansa first-class award space will be made available to partner programmes up to 30 days before the deadline. While it is still unclear if this change will be permanent, temporary or an error, you should take advantage of the award spaces while you can.Lufthansa currently offers first class only on its Boeing 7477-8 fleet. North American destinations include Chicago, Los Angeles (LAX), Mexico City(MEX), Miami/MIA), Newark/EWR, San Francisco (SFO), and Newark (EWR). It seems like the best way to get award availability between Frankfurt and Chicago is to do so in advance. However, if I dig deeper, it appears that most of the space available in advance on this route is actually.Lufthansas 7477-8s are the only planes that offer first class.You can book this award space through many partner programs including Avianca LifeMiles and Air Canada Aeroplan. You will need to do a few searches as exact availability of award seats varies by program.Which frequent flyer program do you want to book with?The best value will be found through Avianca LifeMiles or Air Canada Aeroplan.Avianca LifeMiles charges 87,000 Miles for a one-way award in first class between North America and Europe. LifeMiles partners with Citi, Capital One and Amex.Air Canada Aeroplan charges 100,000 Miles for a one-way award in first class between North America and Europe. For an additional 5,000 miles, you can add a stopover. Aeroplan is a transfer partner with Chase, Capital One and Amex.Book your Lufthansa First Class Award Seats in AdvanceBottom lineLufthansa appears to release first class award tickets to frequent flyer program members more than 15 days before departure. The availability is greatest between Chicago and Frankfurt where first class awards are often available three to four weeks ahead.This information may prove useful for those who are trying to arrange transatlantic travel in the next few weeks. Please share any other trends you see below.
