How to Book LATAM Business Class Using Points: A 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

The landscape of South American luxury travel has shifted significantly. Following LATAM’s exit from the Oneworld alliance and its deepening joint venture with Delta, many travelers are left wondering: Is it still possible to book those coveted lie-flat seats with points?

The answer is a resounding yes. While the rules have changed, LATAM Airlines Business Class remains one of the best values in the sky for 2026, especially if you know which “hidden” partner programs to use.

If you’re struggling to find award availability or need expert assistance navigating these complex partner transfers, our booking specialists are available 24/7.

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Quick Answer: How to Book in 2026

In 2026, the most efficient way to book LATAM Business Class using points is through Qatar Airways Privilege Club (Avios), British Airways Executive Club, or Delta SkyMiles. While LATAM is no longer in Oneworld, it maintains strategic partnerships that allow for high-value redemptions starting as low as 75,000 Avios for long-haul routes from the USA to South America.

What Is LATAM Airlines Business Class?

LATAM’s “Premium Business” is the gold standard for travel to South America. Unlike the “Euro-business” style (which is just an economy seat with a blocked middle), LATAM offers a true long-haul experience on its widebody fleet.

The Experience

• Dining: A curated menu featuring South American flavors and high-end Chilean and Argentine wines.
• Comfort: All long-haul Business Class seats on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet are 180° lie-flat.
• Lounge Access: Booking with points grants you access to LATAM’s flagship lounges in Santiago (SCL), Bogotá (BOG), Buenos Aires (EZE), and São Paulo (GRU).

LATAM Business Class Seats

For 2026, the aircraft you choose is the most critical factor in your comfort. LATAM has standardized much of its fleet, but two main configurations exist.

1. Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (The Gold Standard)

This is the aircraft you want. Most 787-9s feature the new 1-2-1 layout, ensuring every passenger has direct aisle access.

• Best Seats: Window seats (A or L) in even-numbered rows for maximum privacy.
• Avoid: Bulkhead seats near the galley if you are a light sleeper.

2. Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner

Used on slightly shorter long-haul routes, these often feature a 2-2-2 configuration. While the seats are still lie-flat, you may have a “neighbor” to climb over if you’re at the window.

Top Routes Worth Booking with Points

If you are looking for the “sweet spots” for 2026 redemptions, focus on these high-value routes:

• Miami (MIA) to Santiago (SCL) / São Paulo (GRU): The most frequent availability.
• New York (JFK) to Lima (LIM): Perfect for travelers heading to Machu Picchu.
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Santiago (SCL): One of the longest and most “points-worthy” routes.
• Madrid (MAD) to Santiago (SCL): A massive 13-hour flight where a lie-flat bed is essential.

Best Ways to Book LATAM Business Class Using Points (2026)

Option 1: Qatar Airways Privilege Club (The Best Value)

Since LATAM and Qatar Airways maintain a strong bilateral partnership, you can use Qatar Avios to book LATAM.

• The Sweet Spot: US to South America for ~77,000–95,000 Avios.
• Transfer Partners: Amex Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Citi ThankYou Points (via British Airways).

Option 2: British Airways Executive Club

You can move Avios freely between BA and Qatar. BA’s search engine is often the most reliable for spotting “Partner Award” space on LATAM.

• Pros: Low taxes and fees compared to other European carriers.

Option 3: Delta SkyMiles

As LATAM’s primary US partner, Delta has the best integration.

• Pros: Easy to book directly on Delta.com.
• Cons: Pricing is often higher (upwards of 150k–200k miles) due to Delta’s dynamic pricing model.

Pro Tip: Not seeing availability? Our team can access “hidden” partner inventory that doesn’t always show up on websites.

Contact an Expert: +1-833-894-5333

Step-by-Step: How to Book

1. Identify the Route: Ensure your route uses a Boeing 787 to guarantee a lie-flat seat.
2. Search via Partners: Use the British Airways or American Airlines website (yes, they still see some LATAM space) to find “Saver” availability.
3. Confirm the Space: Before transferring points, call the airline or use a real-time search tool to ensure the seat is still “live.”
4. Transfer & Book: Move your credit card points to your chosen airline (e.g., Amex to Qatar).
5. Secure Your Seat: Complete the booking and immediately select your seat on the LATAM website using your PNR (Booking Reference).

Can You Upgrade to LATAM Business Class Using Miles?

Upgrading a cash ticket is possible but tricky in 2026.

• Upgrade via Bidding: LATAM allows you to bid miles or cash 48 hours before the flight.
• Elite Upgrades: If you have LATAM Pass elite status, you can use “Courtesy Segments.”
• Warning: Most “Basic” or “Light” economy fares are not eligible for mileage upgrades.

LATAM vs. Competitors (2026)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Transferring Too Early: Points transfers are one-way. Always confirm the seat exists before moving 100,000 points.
• Short-Haul Confusion: “Business Class” on a flight from Lima to Cusco is a standard seat with an empty middle. Only book widebody planes (787) for the premium experience.
• Ignoring the “Ghost” Availability: Some sites show seats that aren’t actually bookable. Always verify with a second source.

2026 Strategy: How to Maximize Value

• Book 330 Days Out: LATAM releases award seats early.
• Fly Mid-Week: Tuesday and Wednesday flights have 40% better award availability than weekends.
• Use the Phone: If the website errors out, calling the partner airline often works.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

In 2026, LATAM Business Class remains the most comfortable way to reach the southern tip of the world. While the alliance changes have made it harder to book via traditional “Oneworld” methods, the Avios/Qatar backdoor has created a new “sweet spot” for savvy travelers.

Ready to book your South American adventure?

Don’t let your points go to waste on high-fee redemptions. Our award travel experts can find the best routes and handle the transfers for you.

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FAQ Section

1. Can you book LATAM Airlines Business Class with points in 2026?

Yes, you can book using LATAM Pass miles or partner programs like Qatar Airways Avios, British Airways Avios, and Delta SkyMiles.

2. Which miles are best for LATAM Business Class bookings?

Qatar Airways Privilege Club (Avios) currently offers the best value, often requiring fewer miles and lower surcharges than Delta or other partners.

3. Does LATAM Business Class have lie-flat seats?

On all long-haul international flights operated by Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft, LATAM offers 180-degree lie-flat seats.

4. Is LATAM Business Class worth it on long-haul flights?

Absolutely. Given the flight times from the US to Chile or Brazil (8–10+ hours), the lie-flat bed, premium dining, and lounge access provide significant value over Economy.

5. Can I upgrade to LATAM Business Class using miles?

Yes, but it depends on your fare class. You can use LATAM Pass miles to bid for an upgrade or use “Courtesy Segments” if you hold Elite status.