Author: Matt Graham

Matt Graham

Matt was the editor of Australian Frequent Flyer from 2015 until 2025. His passion for travel has taken him to more than 100 countries - with a lot of help along the way from frequent flyer points! Matt's favourite destinations (so far) are Germany, Brazil, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. His interests include aviation, economics & foreign languages, and he has a soft spot for good food and red wine. You can connect with Matt by posting on the Australian Frequent Flyer community forum and tagging @Mattg.

Sydney takeoff

The Australian Departure Tax

Did you know that Aussies are slugged as much as $128.62 in Australian departure taxes and airport fees every time they fly overseas? Whenever you purchase an international flight, your ticket will include a range of taxes that are paid directly to governments and airports. These are payable on both revenue and award bookings, and … Continued

Saudia Boeing 787 Business Class

Saudia Business Class Review

Saudi Arabian Airlines, or Saudia, is the Jeddah-based national airline of Saudi Arabia. Although Saudia has been a SkyTeam alliance member since 2012, it’s not an airline that many Australians ever fly with. But AFF member henleybeach did just that last week! This member picked up a steal of a Business class fare with Saudia – just $684 … Continued

Qantas A380

New Qantas Bonus Status Credits Offer

Qantas has announced a brand new bonus status credits offer! Until 19 June, Qantas is offering 50% bonus status credits to frequent flyers registered with Qantas Business Rewards. Using this offer, you can fast-track your way to Qantas Silver, Gold, Platinum or Platinum One status! The offer can be used with as many new bookings … Continued

Day or Night Flight in Business Class?

When flying Business class, is a day or night flight preferable? Business class flights command a significant price premium over Economy. While some pay the premium to ensure a good night’s sleep on board, others prefer to fly during the day and maximise the experience. Our members are in two camps when it comes to … Continued

cathay pacific

Asia Miles Awards to Book Before 22 June

There’s just over a week left until the Cathay Pacific Asia Miles devaluation takes effect. On Friday 22 June, some Asia Miles awards will become more expensive and the round-trip discount will be removed. If you have a stash of Asia Miles, now might be a good time to spend them! The upcoming Asia Miles devaluation … Continued

Satay served in Malaysia Airlines Business class

Malaysia Airlines Business Sale to Australia

Malaysia Airlines currently has some super airfare deals on Business class from Malaysia to Australia. Business class flights to Australia are selling for as little as $722 return! The Malaysia Airlines Business sale covers flights from Kuala Lumpur to Perth, Brisbane, Sydney and Adelaide. You’d need to commence travel between 16 June 2018 and 31 … Continued

How to Earn Points for Paying Tax & Other Bills in 2020

Book Hotels Direct or via Third Party?

When booking accommodation, you have the option to book hotels direct or to use a third-party website like Expedia or Booking.com. If you book directly with the hotel, you can earn points and status with the hotel’s loyalty program. But you won’t receive any hotel benefits if you book with a third party. So, is … Continued

Auckland, New Zealand

Cheap Flights to New Zealand from $185 return

Dreaming of a visit to the land of the long white cloud? Cheap flights to New Zealand are on sale now, with tickets to Christchurch, Auckland and Wellington starting at just $185 return. Flights to Queenstown are also on sale. These fares are available departing from Sydney, Melbourne and the Gold Coast. These cheap flights … Continued

Velocity to Refund Cancelled Reward Seat Bookings

Guaranteed Reward Seats for Virgin Frequent Flyers

The Velocity Frequent Flyer program includes a range of benefits for families. In addition to family pooling, Fly Ahead and parental status pauses, Virgin Australia guarantees award availability for an annual family holiday. Virgin Australia offers guaranteed reward seats in Economy class for Gold and Platinum Velocity members. This benefit can be used once per year … Continued