Flying Blue Changes + How to Book Air France Awards with JAL

Flying Blue just changed its award pricing, and there's a lot to unpack. In this episode of Takeoff, Travis and Lovan break down what changed with Flying Blue award tickets, what the new fare types include, and what it all means if you're planning to use Flying Blue miles for Air France or KLM flights.

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In the episode, Lovan and Travis share what partner booking looks like, and walk through a workaround that could help you book Air France flights for significantly fewer miles and much lower taxes and fees by using Japan Airlines Mileage Bank miles instead.

The episode covers:• The 2026 changes to Flying Blue award tickets• The difference between Light, Standard, and Flex awards• What's included at each level• How to effectively book with Flying Blue partners

Instructions for How to Book Your Air France Flight With Japan Airlines (JAL) Over the Phone:

Have passport info ready for every traveler before you call. Expect 30+ minutes and multiple ID checks.

Call 800-525-3663 (JAL US reservations, 7am to 6pm CT). Choose English, then press 5 for award bookings.

Enter your JAL Mileage Bank number and 6-digit phone PIN (not your website password). Forgot it? Press 3#.

Ask the agent: "Can you check Air France business class award space using JAL miles?" Give them your exact route, dates, and flight numbers if you have them from JAL's site.

Confirm availability before transferring any points. Once confirmed, stay on the line during the transfer so the agent can verify it landed.

If they try to charge a phone booking fee, push back. Website errors aren't on you, and agents usually waive it.

Resources mentioned in the episode:• seats.aero