I typically use Asia Miles (63-89K one-way) or JAL miles (55-110K one-way) to book JAL business class flights 360 days ahead of my travel dates (see images below).
Asia Miles
Asia Miles typically has open award space 360 days ahead for booking JAL business class during low season. The point requirement varies from 63K (SEA/YVR to Tokyo) to 89K for other cities (see images below).
JAL Miles
Using JAL miles for this redemption is a no-brainer, especially when you transfer them at a 1:1 ratio from credit card programs (e.g., Bilt or Capital One with a 30% bonus).
Finnair Avios to book JAL business class
I was looking for business class award space for two passengers for early 2027 and was surprised to see some availability from the Finnair Plus program for 94K (see image below).
When is Finnair Avios redemption worth it to book JAL business class?
My work colleague did not have any Capital One or Bilt points to transfer to JAL and he had over 400K unused British Avios that he transferred from Amex and Chase a while ago during the 30% bonus offer period. He was happy to quickly transfer them to Finnair Avios and book a roundtrip business class trip for two passengers in February 2027. Finnair Avios cancellation fees are more reasonable compared to Asia Miles in case of cancellations (review).
Avios Transfer Partners & Best Redemptions
| Avios Type | Direct Transfer Partners | Award Space Release | Award Cancellation & Redeposit Fees | Best Redemptions | Notes |
| Iberia | Amex, Chase | 360 days | €25 | Iberia business class 34-42K each way from the US to Madrid. | Book 360 days ahead of time. |
| Qatar | Capital One, Citi | 360 days | $25 | Book Qatar business class from the US to Asia & Africa. | Book 360 days ahead of time. |
| Finnair | Capital One | 361 days | €50 | Book Finnair business class from the US to Helsinki for 62.5K Avios and low taxes. | Book 361 days ahead of time with an award space guarantee. |
| British | Amex, Chase, Capital One | 355 days | £35 or forfeit the taxes for lesser amount. | Book one-way short-haul flights within the US and Europe. | Can be used to book Iberia flights with identical Avios/taxes but only 355 days ahead of time. |
| Aer Lingus | Amex, Chase | 355 days | £35 | Book One-way business class from the US to Dublin for 50K avios and low taxes. | Book 355 days ahead of time. |
Conclusion
Using your Finnair Avios to book JAL business class flights to Japan is a wonderful option if you make use of the frequent 30% transfer bonuses from your credit card programs.