Airlines, Miles and Points

Airlines, miles, and points is the most popular topic at Australian Frequent Flyer. In this category, we provide expert tips, insider tricks, and facilitate discussions about Qantas, Virgin Australia, non-Australian airlines, and global airline alliances. From earning and redeeming frequent flyer points to maximising elite status benefits, we aim to help you get the most out of your travel. We also cover every step of the journey – from planning and booking flights to experiencing the flight itself, and finally, arriving at your destination. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or just starting to explore the world of frequent flyer programs, you'll find valuable advice to elevate your travel experience. See below for articles on airlines, miles and points.

Qantas 747 Premium Economy

Qantas Temporarily Axes Premium Economy to Hong Kong

Qantas will temporarily remove Premium Economy from its Sydney-Hong Kong flights next year. All Qantas flights to Hong Kong between 29 March and 10 June 2019 are currently scheduled to be operated by Airbus A330s. These aircraft do not have a Premium Economy cabin. As a result, Qantas is not selling any seats in Premium … Continued

29 Jun 2018 Qantas
Calculating value

How Much is a Frequent Flyer Point Worth?

Not all frequent flyer points were created equal. The value you receive depends on how they are spent. We all try to maximise the value we get when redeeming frequent flyer points… so how do you know if you’re getting a good deal? The “Cents Per Point” Method One way to calculate the value of … Continued

27 Jun 2018 Qantas
There will be minimal changes to the interior of the ex-Virgin 737s

Virgin Australia Family Pooling Guide

Virgin Australia’s family pooling scheme is a unique benefit that allows up to six family members to combine their Velocity points and status credits in one account. This family-friendly initiative makes it much easier to earn Virgin Australia status when travelling together. How family pooling works A family pool can consist of up to two … Continued

27 Jun 2018 Virgin Australia
A QantasLink Boeing 717 at Canberra Airport

Qantas Priority Boarding Doesn’t Work

Priority boarding is a published Qantas benefit for eligible passengers. Qantas advertises that priority boarding will be available to Business class passengers and Gold, Platinum and Platinum One frequent flyers on Qantas flights. Unfortunately, this benefit is delivered so rarely that Qantas priority boarding has become a running joke on the Australian Frequent Flyer forum. … Continued

23 Jun 2018 Qantas
AirAsia X Premium Flatbed on the Airbus A330-300

Flat Beds to Auckland for Under $500 return

Air Asia X may not be the first airline you consider for a trip to New Zealand. But right now, the Malaysian carrier has some very attractive premium airfares to Auckland. Air Asia X flies daily from the Gold Coast to Auckland at convenient times. The outbound flight departs Gold Coast around 11am, arriving in … Continued

22 Jun 2018 Other Airlines
Flight delayed board

The Mystery of the Disappearing Passengers

We’ve all had flights delayed by passengers that have failed to board. Just last week, this caused an AFF member’s flight from Los Angeles to Sydney to depart more than an hour late. This member subsequently missed their connecting flight to Perth and a family reunion. This is certainly not the first time a passenger … Continued

18 Jun 2018 The Journey
Person using credit card at computer

Qantas Online Mall Points Missing

Numerous AFF members have reported problems with Qantas points earned via the Online Mall not posting. Qantas used to promise that points earned from purchases through the Qantas Online Mall would be credited within 30 days of making the purchase. This recently changed to “4-8 weeks”. But many Qantas Frequent Flyer members are still waiting … Continued

16 Jun 2018 Qantas
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

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

13 Jun 2018 Qantas

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

13 Jun 2018 In Flight