Traveling on short-notice and faced with a high fare? Or booking a high-priced airline or traveling to a high-fare destination?
If the answer is yes to any of these, think about using the American Express IAP (International Airlines Program), which offers a free companion ticket on First Class bookings, for Amex Platinum and Centurion card members.
How the IAP Program Works
The Amex IAP program has two requirements: The paid ticket must be a full-fare, and both people must travel on the same itinerary. Taxes/fees and airline fuel/security surcharges have to be paid on the companion ticket, and the cost varies by airline and destination. 25 airlines are currently part of the Amex IAP program.
When to use IAP
The rule is simple: Turn to IAP when you can’t get a special deal elsewhere and must fly First Class. If you’re going to pay full fare, you might as well get a reward.
Don’t Have Advance Notice for First Class Travel
IAP can be a deal if you’ve missed the advance-purchase requirement.
British Airways Example: Los Angeles-London published fare is $39,416 for two passengers in First Class with no advance; the IAP fare is $24,571, a savings of $14,845.
High-Priced Airlines in First Class
The IAP program also offers great savings in First Class on Etihad or Emirates.
Emirates Example: Boston-Dubai published fare is $37,958 for two passengers in First Class; the IAP fare is $22,260, a savings of $15,698.
Etihad Example: New York-Abu Dhabi published fare is $50,288 for two passengers in First Class; the IAP fare is $29,458, a savings of $20,830.
High-Priced Destination in First Class
Our research has also found that destinations play a role in whether IAP is a good deal.
For instance, Tokyo, a high-fare destination, offers great savings with the IAP program.
New York-Tokyo published fare is $45,664 for two passengers in First Class on Japan Airlines; the IAP fare is $33,564, a savings of $12,100.