re: Flight to London, British Airways or Virgin Atlantic

Done it both ways. If you book via Chase UR the total cost of the flight is baked into the point redemption so you are getting the 25% bonus on the flight and fees (at least as I recall). When you book via BA you may use less miles but will then have to pay the fees taxes yourself. Probably six one half dozen another.

BA kind of sucks if booking through London. However having a direct to MSY is pretty dope so that can outweigh the hassle and bullshite fees.