A few questions on how best to take advantage of the system for an international trip. Seeking tips and advice from the experts
So, a few important things first.
No, I don't have an Atmos CC.
I am willing to get one, provided it will actually save me money at the end of the day, and I am able to pay it off all at once.
I am planning on flying from the Washington DC area (So, IAD, DCA, and BWI) to Dhaka, Bangladesh (DAC) with my wife. So, 2 people.
We are pretty firm on flying from Nov 6 evening, and leaving Dhaka at some point Nov 28. We are willing to adjust a day either way on either end, if the cost is lower enough to justify it.
Now, the primary concerns / dilemmas where I am looking for that expert advice.
I am not opposed to taking a flight from the DC area to somewhere else, say Miami or Chicago or New York, for the flight to Doha (Qatar codeshares with Alaska).
I want to get the Atmos miles. Do I have to book through Alaska to get 100%? Looking at the fares, it keeps flopping between N, O, and something else).
When it comes to getting first class upgrades, what's the cheapest or best way to go about it when biking through a partner? (Ie, booking a Qatar itinerary through Alaska)
Essentially, I am looking for advice on how best to use "the system". I want those Atmos miles, and I'm trying to fly from the DC region to Dhaka, Bangladesh.