✈️ Big News: Bilt Adds Japan Airlines as a 1:1 Transfer Partner!
Effective May 13, 2025, Bilt Rewards members can now transfer points directly to JAL Mileage Bank at a 1:1 ratio — unlocking one of the most valuable airline programs in Asia.
🔥 Why This Is a Big Deal:
Exclusive Access: JAL doesn’t partner with other major transferable currencies (like Amex, Chase, or Capital One). Before this, your only option was converting Marriott Bonvoy points at a 3:1 ratio.
Fast Transfers: Most transfers complete within 10 minutes.
Early Booking Perk: Normally, new JAL members can’t redeem awards for 60 days — but Bilt users can book after just 7 days.
📈 JAL Award Chart Devaluation Coming June 10, 2025
If you’re eyeing JAL flights, book by June 9 to lock in the current pricing — especially for premium cabins.
🛫 Award Pricing: Tokyo ⇄ U.S. (One-Way)
CabinCurrent PriceStarting June 10Economy | 25,000 miles | 27,000 miles
Premium Economy | 32,500 miles | 40,000 miles
Business Class | 50,000 miles | 55,000 miles
First Class | 70,000 miles | 110,000 miles ❗
⚠️ Pro Tip: If you want to lock in a First Class award before the increase, transfer points no later than June 1, since new accounts require a brief waiting period.
💎 Sweet Spots for Redemptions:
Emirates Business Class: NYC to Dubai RT for 110,000 miles
Oneworld Awards: Up to 7 stopovers allowed
JAL First or Business: Great value on long-haul flights to/from Japan
Distance-based partner awards (like flying 20,000+ miles in First for 170k!)
⚠️ Watch Outs:
❌ Miles can only be used for family (by blood/marriage within 2 degrees)
🔁 JAL’s website is clunky, and changes to JAL flights require cancellation + rebooking (fee: ~$22)
🔄 No back-transfer: Once you move your Bilt points to JAL, you can’t transfer them elsewhere
🚀 Final Verdict:
YES — transferring to JAL can be high value, especially for premium cabins and international partner flights. But don’t transfer speculatively. Use this gem only if you have a plan.
