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.

Using points to upgrade – Premium Economy or Business?

With all the Qantas Frequent Flyer changes that came into effect in July, flight upgrades are probably one of the few areas left where points still have significant value. Depending on the fare you booked, an upgrade to Premium Economy, Business or First Class can often be requested. But if you have not travelled in … Continued

28 Jul 2014 Qantas

Compensation for work hours lost by delays?

Whether you travel once a year or once a week, chances are delays and cancellations will eventually impact your plans. For a leisure traveller, it could be said your time is not so important. But what about someone in business, can the airlines be held liable for the productivity lost? After a recent bad experience … Continued

26 Jul 2014 Qantas

Grateful Newbie praises AFF community

One long-term lurker but infrequent poster takes an opportunity to thank the amazing array of talent that our AFF community has to offer. The tips and hints provided on the forum has inspired this newbie to start a “points project” in an effort to get their family of four to the US for a holiday … Continued

The Virgin Phone Scam

When it comes to scams, unfortunately airlines are often good fodder for the scammers. As they are in the business of transporting thousands of people a day, it’s easy for the crooks to find a victim who recently took a flight. For the past few weeks, it has been Virgins turn, and a few of … Continued

22 Jul 2014 Virgin Australia

Concern about possible devaluation of points

Avianca’s life miles program has in recent years been a popular one for our members. Despite being based in Columbia, it has offered some unique opportunities to buy points and travel cheaply at the front of the aircraft, thanks to its membership in the Star Alliance. With a generous 100% bonuses for buying miles every … Continued

19 Jul 2014 Avianca

The Joy of Flying

This week our members discuss their favourite part of the flying experience. For some members, the pre-flight anticipation is top of their list. The excitement building in the night before a flight and arriving at the airport fills some members with glee. One member hopes that the novelty of flying never wears off as the … Continued

10 Jul 2014 The Journey

Qantas to buy more 747s?

Every second year, Farnborough in the UK hosts a very large air show. Aside from the displays on the ground and in the air, there is much interest in who announces what when it comes to new aircraft orders. With the massive orders in the past 18 months for both the Airbus A320NEO and Boeings … Continued

9 Jul 2014 Qantas

Emirates struggling to grow Perth market

For the past five or so years, our members have become used to the ever increasing presence of Emirates aircraft in Australia. Most capital cities have started with a service via Asia, or even a direct service from Dubai in the smaller 777s, often with onward flights to New Zealand to ensure the aircraft is … Continued

2 Jul 2014 Emirates

Online check in and getting the right seat

This week we look at the dynamics of check in and getting the right seat. A passenger is presented with many options when traveling in Economy class, but there seems to be a fewer options when travelling in Business class. Despite the hefty cost of Business class travel, one of our members discovers that’s no … Continued

The art of getting an upgrade

We have all heard the stories or seen it in the movies. You rock up to the check in counter after a terrible day, desperate for a flight upgrade. You ask, and the agent, feeling sorry for you, makes your day. However, we all know life is more often than not, very different to that … Continued

Flight Cancellation Conundrum

An unexpected flight cancellation can cause havoc to a carefully scheduled itinerary. However, an unexplained and unexpected flight cancellation can cause havoc coupled with frustration which in turn can be a lethal travel combination! This week our members discuss whether a passenger has the right to know the reasons for flight cancellations. Many members felt … Continued