Can I book for someone else?

Yes, but you must transfer the points to an airline account in the passenger's name, or in some cases (like British Airways or Air Canada), create a 'household account' to combine points.

What if I can't find a direct flight?

Be prepared for a layover. Searching for flights with one connection significantly increases your chances of finding business class award space.

Is it better to book early or last minute?

Book 330 days out for the best selection, or look for 'last-minute' releases 7-14 days before the flight when airlines release unsold seats.

How to book business class flights to Asia using credit card points

Focus on transferring flexible points like Chase Ultimate Rewards, Amex Membership Rewards, or Capital One Miles to airline partners like ANA, Air Canada Aeroplan, or Virgin Atlantic. You need to search for 'saver' award space at least 330 days in advance or within 14 days of departure for the best availability.

Identify your airline alliances. Know the big three: Star Alliance (United, ANA, Air Canada), Oneworld (JAL, Cathay Pacific, American), and SkyTeam (Korean Air, Delta). Most points transfer to one partner within these alliances.
Search for 'Saver' space. Use search engines like United.com (for Star Alliance) or AmericanAirlines.com (for Oneworld) to find seats labeled 'Saver' or 'Partner Award'. If you don't see it there, you cannot book it with points.
Check transfer ratios. Check your credit card portal to see the transfer ratio. Most are 1:1, but some are 1:0.8 or 2:1. Only transfer points once you have confirmed the flight is available on the partner airline's website.
Book through the partner airline. If you found a flight on United.com operated by ANA, go to ANA's website to book it using ANA miles, or Air Canada Aeroplan if you transferred points there. Never transfer points until the space is confirmed.

Can I book for someone else?: Yes, but you must transfer the points to an airline account in the passenger's name, or in some cases (like British Airways or Air Canada), create a 'household account' to combine points.
What if I can't find a direct flight?: Be prepared for a layover. Searching for flights with one connection significantly increases your chances of finding business class award space.
Is it better to book early or last minute?: Book 330 days out for the best selection, or look for 'last-minute' releases 7-14 days before the flight when airlines release unsold seats.