Avoiding foreign transaction fees

[raenye]

I want to use the 3x AmEx PRG for a flight by a non-US carrier (probably AF/KL or AZ) but it has a 2.7% FTF.
Which airlines/OTAs will process payment for airfare in the US? Is there a wiki or a full list?

Thanks!

P.S.
I know CSP and BA+ have no FTF; I want MR.

 

[Matt]

I've not bought airfare in a while, but I believe all of the U.S. OTAs would charge you in USD and most of the airlines directly would have a US site and it wouldn't be an issue...

 

[raenye]

I recall reading somewhere that it depends on where they actually process the transaction.
That's why I'm asking what is "safe".

• Air Canada (ref)
• British Airways (ref1, ref2)
• Qatar via Expedia (ref)
• Emirates (ref)

On the other hand, a comment here says AB, AF and TK are fine.

P.S.
I mainly care about AF/KL promo flights, having a couple hundred $ in YQ, that must be booked on their websites.

 

[KennyBSAT]

I booked AF award tickets on 1/20, Merchant Location on Barclays is listed as: ROISSY CDG CE FRA

I'm pretty sure it was charged in Euros as indicated during my purchase.

 

[raenye]

I booked AF award tickets on 1/20, Merchant Location on Barclays is listed as: ROISSY CDG CE FRA

I'm pretty sure it was charged in Euros as indicated during my purchase.

Departed from the US? booked while being physically in the US?

 

[KennyBSAT]

No, DPS-HKG award on GA with ~$53 taxes and fees. Booked while in the US.

 

[smittytabb]

I booked AF award tickets on 1/20, Merchant Location on Barclays is listed as: ROISSY CDG CE FRA

I'm pretty sure it was charged in Euros as indicated during my purchase.

Roissy is what locals use to refer to CDG airport in Paris.

 

[Mountain Trader]

Actually, Roissy is the name of the town next to CDG airport.

 

[raenye]

OK, so I booked a rev ticket AZ via Orbitz.
It was billed in the US, posted as "Orbitz Chicago IL - doing business as Alitalia'.

No FTF
But will I get 3x MR with the PRG? is DBA the part that matters?

 

[raenye]

Update for whoever finds this thread: I got 3x MR.
Also, soon PRG won't have an FTF.

 

[KyRoamer]

It is time for all credit card issuers to eliminate FTFs. Many have and others are considering it. e can help speed that process by giving the FTF as the reason every time we churn (make that cancel) a card. Also each of us should have at least one card with no FTF. Even if it has to be one without benefits (and it doesn't) saving 3% more than offsets the lost benefits.

 

[MickiSue]

FWIW, Amex Delta has no FTF. And, of course, has chip.

 

[raenye]

FWIW, Amex Delta has no FTF. And, of course, has chip.

Thanks, but IMHO MQMs are the only upside of Amex Delta.
PRG gains better everywhere and, as a charge card, doesn't take an Amex credit card slot.

 

[MickiSue]

@raenye: it's not my fave, either. But for those who may not have PRG, it's s decent sub.

 

[raenye]

@raenye: it's not my fave, either. But for those who may not have PRG, it's s decent sub.

TY Premier, Arrival, British Airways, Discover are all better than Delta IMHO (unless you need an Amex).