The Journey

At the end of the day it's all about "The Journey". This popular topic covers the planning, booking, the flight, and then the arrival at you destination. Dive into this section to explore tips and advice for every step of your journey.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Europe 2020 Early Bird Sales Have Landed

It’s that time of year again! The 2020 Europe early bird sales have landed, and airlines have already started offering discounted early-bird airfares for travel to Europe next year. Economy class flights from Australia to Europe on full-service airlines are currently available from just $1,027 return, and there are also some Premium Economy and Business … Continued

Court heavy fine

Economy Downgrade Inadequate, Court Rules

Passengers that book a Business Class ticket should not have to accept a downgrade to Economy Class, a German court has ruled. In a recent case, the judge found that Economy Class was an inadequate and unequal replacement for a paid Business Class ticket. This may sound like common sense, but involuntary downgrades are more … Continued

Which Airlines Have External Cameras?

Many aviation enthusiasts enjoy looking out the window during their flight – as evidenced by a recent AFF debate on window shades. But there are certain things that you can’t see just by looking out the aircraft window – such as the outside of the plane, and the view in front of you. This is where external … Continued

28 Aug 2019 In Flight
Innsbruck Austria Europe summer

Book Your Summer Award Travel to Europe Now

Are you planning to travel to Europe between June and August 2020? You’re not alone! Australians love to visit Europe during the peak northern summer period, with many Aussies flying there during the July school holidays. The trip from Australia to Europe is a long one, so most of us prefer to fly in Business … Continued

Australian money in TRAVEL jar with passport

How Hidden-City Fare Pricing Works

Ever noticed that it was more expensive to fly from A to B, compared to flying from A to C via B? This phenomenon is known as “hidden-city” pricing, and airlines hate it when passengers exploit it. Although hidden-city ticketing is more prevalent overseas, it does exist in Australia. In one example, a Qantas Business … Continued

Window shade plane

Window Shades Down on Day Flights?

Staring out the window and watching the world go by is one of the joys of air travel. But some airlines insist that all passengers lower their window shades to create a dark cabin – even in the middle of the day. There are several reasons that airlines may ask passengers to close their window … Continued

8 Aug 2019 In Flight
Canada

Canada Introduces Air Passenger Protections

If you’re flying to, from or within Canada, you’re now entitled to up to $1,000 in compensation if your flight is delayed or cancelled. And if you’re bumped from a flight due to overbooking, you could receive up to $2,400. As part of new Air Passenger Protection laws, airlines in Canada are also now required … Continued

20 Jul 2019 Post Flight

Why Business Class can be Cheaper than Economy

Premium airline cabins normally command a significant price premium over Economy. But, occasionally, Business class tickets are in fact cheaper than Economy! AFF members have discovered multiple examples of Virgin Australia Business fares that were cheaper than Economy class on the same flight. So, why does this happen… and why would anyone still book an Economy … Continued

reclining into passenger in economy seat behind

Seat Recline Etiquette: Passenger Refuses to Raise Seat During Meals

Advances in technology have made flying a much more pleasant experience than ever before. But when you’re hurtling through the sky in a confined space with hundreds of other passengers, arguments are sometimes inevitable. One of the biggest travel etiquette gripes among passengers is seat reclining. It’s an unwritten rule that, as a courtesy to … Continued

15 Jul 2019 In Flight
Flight delay clock

Flight Delays: Disaster to Delight

There’s no doubt that flight delays can be frustrating, especially if you’re on a tight deadline to reach your destination. But, occasionally, airlines handle them so well that the delay turns from a disaster into a delight. This week our members share their “best” experiences of airline delays that turned out to be surprisingly pleasant. … Continued

11 Jul 2019 The Journey
Mistake

Travel Advice Ignored by Friends & Family

Many AFF members take pride in finding the best travel deals and optimising their frequent flyer points. But many say that they struggle to help friends and family members who don’t share the same passion for our hobby. There are countless stories of members who’ve tried to help, only to find their advice has fallen … Continued