British Airways now is charging fuel surcharges for US Airways international award tickets, because US Air has started breaking out fuel surcharges separately on its paid tickets.
The rule British Airways Executive Club follows for Avios award ticket redemptions is to charge fuel surcharges that the operating airline charges for an equivalent revenue ticket.
Previously, US Airways included the fuel surcharge amount in the fare, so there was no fuel surcharge component and it wasn't a separate line item. Now, in a move that more closely aligns it not only with American Airlines, but also most other airlines, US Airways fares do show a separate “fuel surcharge” or “YR surcharge” amount.
Don't get too excited if you think you've spotted a US Airways international award on the British Airways site that doesn't have fuel surcharges. Here, it looks as though there are no fuel surcharges on this US Airways Philadelphia to Paris award in Envoy Business Class:
…but when you click through, sure enough, you learn you'll be hit with over $450 in fuel surcharges for this one way award.
FAQ
What If I Already Booked a US Airways Award Using British Airways Avios–Will I Be Charged Fuel Surcharges If I Rebook?
Most likely, yes. If you keep your original itinerary, you won't need to pay fuel surcharges if you weren't charged any when you originally booked. But if you change your itinerary you will most likely have to pay fuel surcharges on the new award, if you're rebooking on an international US Airways flight.
Does This Affect US Airways Dividend Miles Awards?
No. US Airways Dividend Miles awards on US Airways operated flights, including international flights, are not subject to fuel surcharges, but are subject to Dividend Miles award rules and the award processing fee. Keep in mind that US Airways award travel must be booked roundtrip, one ways are the same cost as roundtrip. Consider getting the US Airways® Premier World MasterCard® to earn Dividend Miles, before the card is discontinued.
Other Ways to Use British Airways Avios for Award Travel to Europe?
It's still possible to use Avios for Aer Lingus award flights to avoid fuel surcharges, and also Air Berlin, although for both options I highly recommend planning well in advance, especially for business class awards, given the high demand for these options that avoid fuel surcharges. You can also transfer British Airways Avios to Iberia Avios to lower the fuel surcharges.
Will British Airways charging fuel surcharges on US Airways international award flights affect your travel plans?
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