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.

Picking the right Frequent Flyer Program

One of the more popular questions we see on the forum, particularly from newish members, is the question of what Frequent Flyer program to join. While some may have points that are easy to earn, the redemption or “burn” rates can be very high. Others – in particular those from non-Australian airlines – may offer … Continued

Virgin’s lesson in tardiness

One platinum member this week is furious that they were pulled from a flight for arriving at the gate 15 minute prior to departure time. This resulted in our member having to fork out an additional $120 to catch a later flight. It would seem that Virgin made little effort to track our traveler down … Continued

13 Nov 2014 Virgin Australia

Seating safety: a “weighty” issue

A photograph of an overweight man sitting in a very tight plane seat has resurfaced this week. This photograph has evoked sympathy for both the overweight man and the unfortunate person sitting next to him. In a nation whose waistlines are expanding, our members discuss some of the practicalities of airlines dealings with overweight passengers. … Continued

6 Nov 2014 In Flight

Jetstar Carry-on cutbacks

As the peak Christmas travel season approaches, some travellers are in for something of a shock. For those trying to avoid those extra baggage charges by smuggling the kitchen sink on board, the time is up. Not only are the airlines taking a more serious approach to policing carry on luggage, some are even changing … Continued

4 Nov 2014 Jetstar

Cheap Business or Premium Economy?

For some time, many of our savvy members have been aware of the excellent value on offer when flying Fiji Air Business Class to the USA. While it does require a stopover or transit in both directions, often you can enjoy the trip in Business Class comfort at excep-tional pricing. When faced with the choice … Continued

Qantas service standards under fire

A Qantas Platinum Frequent Flyer this week hits out at Qantas and asserts that loyalty is repaid with disinterested service – and at a premium price! This member has been a platinum level flyer for many years and is becoming increasingly disheartened with the quality of service received at Qantas. Poor service has been experienced … Continued

30 Oct 2014 Qantas

Qantas losing its gloss?

A newspaper article last week asked the question, “Is Qantas losing its gloss”. Using statistics published by the government on International Airline activity over the past ten years, it argued that Qantas was in significant decline. While some may ask what rock the author had been hiding under, as such news is hardly new given … Continued

28 Oct 2014 Qantas

Virgin gets Tiger’s Tail for $1

Australian aviation history is littered with incidences of companies trying to be a successful third domestic airline. Not long after deregulation, we had Compass Mark 1 and shortly after Compass Mark 2, both short lived. Impulse airlines soon stepped into the role, and it ran successfully until capital was cut off by its backers. As … Continued

21 Oct 2014 Virgin Australia

Connection Conundrums

When it comes to the big trips, getting the right airfare can get tricky. The easiest way is to use a single airline to book the entire journey. Often that airline will have codeshares on the flights it does not operate. Should a delay occur, having it on the one ticket will often give you … Continued