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.
The extensive alliance between Qantas and Emirates has failed to deliver on its promises of improved service and choice for flyers, according to one member. Successive reductions in benefits for Qantas customers flying Emirates are just part of a long list of complaints. Our members particularly lament the loss of many Qantas international flights. Flights to Europe … Continued
In order to retain status with any airline, you generally need to do a certain amount of flying each year. Qantas Platinum members, for example, need to earn 1,200 status credits each membership year in order to retain Platinum Qantas status. But it may be possible to renew your status, even if you fall short … Continued
In recent weeks, Virgin Australia expanded its frequent flyer program partnership with BP. Virgin Velocity points can now be redeemed for petrol at any BP service station in Australia. This complements the existing ability to earn Velocity points on all BP purchases. Our members generally welcome new ways to earn and redeem frequent flyer points. … Continued
Did you know that it’s possible to travel around the world for just a little over $2,000? One member discovered this recently while planning a round-the-world trip of their own. This member was researching fares in Economy class, with a preference for oneworld airlines. Does anyone know of a good value round the world fare that uses … Continued
If you’re having trouble using your Virgin Velocity points to book a reward flight, you’re not alone. It appears that the Virgin Australia website is currently displaying very limited reward seat availability, particularly for flights on Etihad and Singapore Airlines. In many cases, reward flight searches on the Virgin website are bringing up only the more … Continued
One member is currently trying to determine the best Oneworld frequent flyer program to join. This member travels three times per year between Australia and the UK in Business class. Status is the most important consideration for this member, however the ease and value of earning & burning points is also a factor. So my … Continued
Virgin Velocity Gold status comes with tons of benefits when you fly with Virgin Australia or any of its partner airlines, such as Air New Zealand or Singapore Airlines. These include lounge access, bonus points and the ability to change to an earlier flight for free. Gold Velocity status even comes with complimentary hotel loyalty … Continued
If you’ve ever tried to book a one-way international flight, you may have discovered it’s more expensive than buying a return ticket! This week our members reveal their strategies to beat the one-way price hike and save hundreds of dollars. Many airlines penalise passengers for booking one-way, rather than round-trip international tickets. But one-way bookings … Continued
Frustrated Qantas customers are waiting longer than ever to speak to a call centre agent. Hold times of well over an hour are now normal, and numerous members have reported waiting 3 or even 4 hours. Call dropouts and promises of call backs that don’t eventuate also make the long list of Qantas call centre complaints … Continued
Many airlines have been introducing Premium Economy in recent years as a “middle ground” between Economy and Business class. Most Premium Economy cabins offer seats with more width and legroom than Economy. Some airlines also offer improved meals and other comforts. For example, Qantas provides amenity kits for Premium Economy passengers. One member is considering … Continued
A Virgin flyer’s recent decision to treat themselves to a Business class upgrade ended in bitter disappointment. This member feels they received second class service, including last meal choice, because they had upgraded from an Economy ticket. This member watched on as full-fare paying passengers received blatantly preferential treatment. It seems the type of fare … Continued
Indonesia Air Asia X will suspend all flights from 1 September 2016. This will result in the cancellation of all flights between Sydney, Melbourne and Bali. Affected passengers have been contacted and given the option of a rebooking onto new flights, including via Kuala Lumpur, or travelling prior to the route suspensions in September. Passengers … Continued
