Economy Saver Awards to Europe on Fifth-Freedom Routes

We’re seeing Emirates Skywards saver awards to Europe in economy for just 17,500 miles one way from New York City, flying nonstop on Emirates’ fifth-freedom routes from EWR and JFK to Athens (ATH) and Milan (MXP). Availability spans January through October 2026, with 2–9 seats open on many dates.

These routes are ideal not only for travelers headed to Greece or Italy, but also for anyone planning broader European travel, as Athens and Milan are inexpensive hubs with easy onward connections across Europe. Taxes and fees are reasonable at $123 outbound and $165 on the return, and all bookings must be made directly through Emirates Skywards.

Be sure to check transfer ratios before moving points to Emirates Skywards, as values vary by transfer partner. Even after recent devaluations, this remains a strong economy deal, requiring as few as 22,000 transferable points from banks that transfer at a 5:4 or 1:0.8 ratio. Note that the only bank currently offering a 1:1 transfer ratio will reduce its ratio effective January 13, 2026, so consider transferring points before that date. When booking a Saver fare, be sure to review the change, cancellation, and baggage policies, as these differ from the higher-priced Flex Plus fare.