Author: Matt Graham
Hilton Monetises Late Checkout for Elites: Beginning of the End for Hotel Loyalty?
Hilton Honors has removed late check-out for its Silver, Gold and Diamond elite members, but plans to sell it back to them. Is this the start of a sad new trend for hotel loyalty programs?
When Does Virgin Australia Open Check-In & Bag Drop?
You can drop your checked bag at the airport for a Virgin Australia domestic flight any time on the day of departure until 30 minutes before the flight leaves. But international flights have more limited check-in and bag drop times.
Last Chance to (Indirectly) Convert Amex Points to Alaska Miles
For a few more weeks, Australians can convert Amex Membership Rewards points into Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan miles via Hawaiian Airlines. This is why you should do it.
Jetstar Asia is Closing Down
Qantas' Singapore-based low-cost carrier Jetstar Asia will shut down at the end of July 2025 after almost 21 years, citing rising costs.
Frequent Flyers Less Engaged in Velocity Program After Changes?
Velocity Frequent Flyer members seem less invested in recent double status credits offers, compared to before the 2025 program changes. The interest is also significantly less than it is for similar Qantas promos.
When Can You Check In for a Jetstar Flight?
For Jetstar domestic flights, you can check in and drop your checked bags at the airport between 2 hours and 40 minutes before departure. There are different timings for international flights.
Qantas’ Fictitious Flight QF9097 from QZW to QZY
QF9097 from QZW to QZY, two fictitious airports, is a "pseudo flight" in Qantas' systems. It's used to keep tickets active if they only contain flight credits or gift cards.
Vietnam Airlines’ Great Premium Cabin Award Availability from Australia
SkyTeam's Vietnam Airlines has lots of Premium Economy and Business Class award seats available from Australia to Vietnam, and onwards to Europe. You can easily book using Virgin Atlantic points.
Virgin Launches First Double Status Credits Promo Since Program Changes
Velocity Frequent Flyer is offering double status credits or points on Virgin Australia flights when you register and book by 13 June 2025, and fly by 29 April 2026.