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.
What does it take to become a frequent flyer? This question has divided our members this week. While some say it’s all about the number of flights taken, others believe a frequent flyer is anyone that can make the most of the perks available to make any trip more enjoyable. One member opines that a … Continued
The American Airlines AAdvantage program is a popular oneworld alternative to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program. AAdvantage status comes with perks such as system-wide upgrades, and AAdvantage miles are considered by many to be more valuable than Qantas points. Having recently moved to the USA, one Qantas Platinum member is currently weighing up the pros … Continued
The first of Virgin Australia’s refurbished Boeing 777 aircraft is now in service! Virgin is currently refurbishing their entire long-haul fleet with new suites in Business class, an on-board bar and brand new Premium Economy seats. These aircraft will operate on Virgin’s routes to Los Angeles and Abu Dhabi. Virgin’s new Boeing 777 Business class … Continued
This week one member is less than impressed with the shocking service from online travel agent “BYOjet”. After paying for a flight, the member received a ticket for a flight 3 months after the date booked. But this was just the start of the problems. When the member tried to contact BYOjet, they were advised … Continued
The security of Qantas Frequent Flyer accounts is being questioned this week after a member’s account was hacked. Almost 50,000 points were stolen. The member’s private information would have also been compromised. Having somehow managed to obtain this member’s PIN number, the hacker redeemed over 30,000 points worth of Myer gift vouchers. After spotting the fraudulent transactions, … Continued
New parents can now elect to pause their Qantas Frequent Flyer membership for up to 18 months. The family-friendly change has been welcomed by our members, but how does it compare to Virgin’s “Membership Pause” policy? Qantas’ new “Status Hold” is available to new parents, including foster parents, for up to 18 months. During the hold period, eligible members … Continued
It appears that Qantas is now severely restricting Classic Flight Reward seat access to Bronze frequent flyers, particularly in premium cabins. Members of oneworld and other partner airline programs wishing to redeem points for Qantas flights may also be affected. Our members have noticed a significant difference in the award availability seen on the Qantas website by … Continued
United Airlines miles open up a world of opportunity when it comes to cheap Business and First class travel. United sells miles that can be redeemed for flights on any Star Alliance airline. With bonuses of up to 100% available from time to time, this makes it possible to fly to Asia in First Class … Continued
Following an involuntary downgrade from Business to Economy, one member is frustrated with Qantas’ refusal to offer any sort of refund or compensation. This member had originally booked a Business class ticket from Canberra to Singapore via Melbourne. But the domestic connection was later downgraded to Economy. Qantas offered no refund, and only begrudgingly agreed … Continued
This week our members discuss the pros and cons of booking with a travel agent. While some find travel agents invaluable, others see little benefit and prefer to book their own travel online. There are numerous reasons to book with an agent. As well as offering specialised advice, travel agents often have access to cheaper airfares … Continued
Virgin America Airlines will soon be taken over by US-based Alaska Airlines. As part of the acquisition, the Virgin America brand will eventually disappear, being absorbed into the Alaska Airlines brand. As was the case with the American Airlines/US Airways merger, the process will be a lengthy one. Both airlines promise that there will be … Continued
If you’ve always wanted to visit South America, there has never been a better time! Flights between Australia and South America have traditionally been expensive. But, to the delight of travellers, this appears to be changing. In late 2015, Air New Zealand launched flights from Auckland to Buenos Aires. This effectively broke the monopoly of … Continued