Awards for new American Airlines business class suites are wide open between Chicago and London Heathrow this summer as well as between Philadelphia and London.

The new American Airlines 787-9s debuts June 5. That’s when the first plane flies Chicago – Los Angeles and back and then on to London. Come July all three of American’s Chicago – London flights transition to this new aircraft (“789P”).

It features business class suites with doors, including an enhanced bulkhead row, as well as new premium economy seats. The plane is also equipped with ViaSat wifi which is far more functional than the Panasonic installs that have been featured on all of American’s wifis prior to the ‘block 2’ 787-8s which were delivered after the pandemic.

American has these flights available for a variety of points prices, for instance 62,000 miles each way and 68,000 miles each way. Meanwhile, you can book them via Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan for 55,000 miles each way. And if you’re using either program, no fuel surcharges apply (departures originating in the U.K. do incur the hefty premium cabin departure tax so they involve ~ $300 in taxes).

• Chicago – London is available for at least two but some days as many as six or more passengers most days in July and August.

• London – Chicago is available a majority of days in June (check to see whether it’s a new 787-9 or the old product prior to booking) and in August.

• American puts this plane on Philadelphia – London Heathrow in early August, and availability appears wide open for that flight in August as well.

American Airlines AAdvantage:

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan:

That makes a July or August outbound and August return ideal for U.S. members. American’s award calendar is not great for searching this space because British Airways awards (and their hefty fuel surcharges) will be available much of the summer as well, at 57,500 miles per passenger – so if you see that price it may be the more expensive BA flights.

You can also book these flights via Cathay Pacific for 63,000 points and without surcharges. There’s currently a 20% transfer bonus from Capital One to Qantas and their fees are somewhat reasonable. Avoid booking via British Airways.