Author: Staff Writers

Staff Writers

The Joy of Flying

This week our members discuss their favourite part of the flying experience. For some members, the pre-flight anticipation is top of their list. The excitement building in the night before a flight and arriving at the airport fills some members with glee. One member hopes that the novelty of flying never wears off as the … Continued

Qantas to buy more 747s?

Every second year, Farnborough in the UK hosts a very large air show. Aside from the displays on the ground and in the air, there is much interest in who announces what when it comes to new aircraft orders. With the massive orders in the past 18 months for both the Airbus A320NEO and Boeings … Continued

On Safari in a Flying Caravan

Safari is said to have entered the English language in the late 19th century. It’s a Swahili word meaning long journey, thought to have taken its origin from the Arabic safarīyah or journey. Our members often take long journeys, but you only take real safaris when in Africa. This week, we look at a safari … Continued

Best use of Amex points for booking flights

American Express has long been known for its generous rewards program. With many suppliers taking Amex as payment, it often does not take long to amass a good haul. Having got those points, a common question is often asked, how best to spend them? I have approx 600k of American Express points and next April … Continued

Emirates struggling to grow Perth market

For the past five or so years, our members have become used to the ever increasing presence of Emirates aircraft in Australia. Most capital cities have started with a service via Asia, or even a direct service from Dubai in the smaller 777s, often with onward flights to New Zealand to ensure the aircraft is … Continued

Online check in and getting the right seat

This week we look at the dynamics of check in and getting the right seat. A passenger is presented with many options when traveling in Economy class, but there seems to be a fewer options when travelling in Business class. Despite the hefty cost of Business class travel, one of our members discovers that’s no … Continued

Canberra to Berlin, a gap year classic

For many Australians, the break between school and university is almost a rite of passage. Often known as gap year, it’s a chance to see the world and experience new cultures, while doing the odd job or two to fund your travels. For one of our members, the break before the start of university proved … Continued

The art of getting an upgrade

We have all heard the stories or seen it in the movies. You rock up to the check in counter after a terrible day, desperate for a flight upgrade. You ask, and the agent, feeling sorry for you, makes your day. However, we all know life is more often than not, very different to that … Continued

Flight Cancellation Conundrum

An unexpected flight cancellation can cause havoc to a carefully scheduled itinerary. However, an unexplained and unexpected flight cancellation can cause havoc coupled with frustration which in turn can be a lethal travel combination! This week our members discuss whether a passenger has the right to know the reasons for flight cancellations. Many members felt … Continued