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.
After a disappointing flight, one member recently contacted Virgin Australia to inquire about a lack of food or drinks on board. But the follow-up “customer service” was so abysmal, it left them feeling even more disappointed with the airline than they had been before complaining! Our member was initially disappointed not to receive a meal … Continued
There could be any number of reasons not to take the first flight of a multi-sector booking. For example, one member recently discovered that it was cheaper to book a ticket from Perth to Singapore via Melbourne, than a direct Melbourne-Singapore flight. Being based in Melbourne, the member is considering purchasing the ticket from Perth … Continued
One member is bitterly disappointed after Qantas cancelled their booking without notifying them. Adding insult to injury, the airline even charged a cancellation fee. This member had redeemed their hard-earned Qantas points for a flight to Tanzania on oneworld partner Qatar Airways. The points were debited from the member’s frequent flyer account and the additional … Continued
Low-cost airlines Air Asia X and Scoot have both announced new flights to Europe, and tickets from Australia to Europe are now on sale for as little as $369! From 30 October 2016, Air Asia X will commence flights from Kuala Lumpur to Barcelona using an Airbus A330. The flights will operate via Istanbul, and … Continued
When redeeming frequent flyer points, high taxes can add hundreds of dollars to the cost of a “free” flight. These taxes typically need to be paid with real money, in addition to the points required. Many airlines also impose their own “carrier charges”, sometimes disguised as fuel surcharges. Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Emirates and British Airways … Continued
Our members are outraged by Virgin’s plans to remove key frequent flyer benefits from next month. Gold & Platinum flyers will no longer receive perks including Fly Ahead, complimentary seat selection or bonus points when flying on Virgin’s cheapest Economy tickets. Even when flying on more expensive tickets, Virgin’s most loyal flyers may soon be forced … Continued
Jetstar has been accused of blatantly misleading customers by advertising cheap airfares that don’t exist. After clicking on a Jetstar advertisement for $169 flights to Hawaii, one member was unable to find a single flight available at that price. In fact, the lowest airfare our member could find was double the rate initially shown. While Jetstar … Continued
With almost 600,000 Virgin Australia Velocity points at their disposal, one member is planning a trip for two from Melbourne to New York. They would like to redeem their Velocity points to fly Business class, and seek advice on an itinerary to New York that offers good value. Just wondering what is the ‘best’ way … Continued
Qantas is removing its Minimum Points Guarantee for American Airlines flights. From 1 September 2016, Qantas frequent flyers will no longer earn a minimum of 500 points when flying American. The number of Qantas points earned with American Airlines will now be based entirely on the Partner Airline Earning Tables published on the Qantas website. … Continued
Having saved up a healthy balance of Qantas points, one member wishes to use them to fly in Business class to Rome. But they’re now faced with an all-too-common dilemma: Redeem the points for a Business ticket, or try to upgrade with frequent flyer points from an Economy ticket? Buying an Economy ticket and requesting … Continued
One member is considering abandoning their loyalty to Virgin Australia in favour of a “best fare of the day” policy. This member currently holds Platinum status with Virgin. But they are constantly finding that they can fly on overseas airlines in Premium Economy – or even Business class – for the same price as Economy … Continued
Surviving long-haul flights in “cattle class” can be a challenge at the best of times. But there’s now a way to ease the pain and guarantee a whole row to yourself on an international Qantas flight! Short of an upgrade, there’s not much better than two empty neighbouring seats when you’re stuck in Economy a long international … Continued