Europe
Discount Business Class travel competition sharp: British Airways & Virgin
British Airways is gaining ground on arch-rival Virgin Atlantic, both in the comfort of its seats, and the opportunity of discounted Business Class travel using mileage upgrades.
BA requires 25,000 miles for a Premium Economy to Business Class travel upgrade vs. 40,000 for Virgin Atlantic.
Strangely, BA allows upgrades only on tickets purchased directly through it, which excludes business travelers who must book through their company's designated travel agency or preferred selling agency.
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Otherwise, the price of purchased miles is nearly identical, with BA gaining an edge, often with lower upgradeable fares. Both carriers allow one-way upgrades, but only with one-way bookings.
Bottom line: Unless you’re a die-hard fan of one or the other carrier, go with the better fare and/or schedule.
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