This is similar to the QF KUL-BKK saga of 2018 but from a redemption perspective rather than earn.
The VA mileage calculator has Sydney to Melbourne as 456 miles. Great Circle has this at 439 miles - a difference of 17 miles. Now of course this on it's own won't cause any dramas, after all zone 1 is 1-600 miles. However, there are two routes that are affected in a way that it conveniently pushes them over into the next zone for rewards!
A check over at Qantas confirms the CBR-SYD-MEL itinerary can be booked for 8000pts in economy and DRW-SYD-MEL can be booked for 18000pts.
Whilst I haven't booked these itineraries, I am keen to hear from others if they have in the past and whether this has always been the case. I am convinced this is deliberate and misleading.
The VA mileage calculator has Sydney to Melbourne as 456 miles. Great Circle has this at 439 miles - a difference of 17 miles. Now of course this on it's own won't cause any dramas, after all zone 1 is 1-600 miles. However, there are two routes that are affected in a way that it conveniently pushes them over into the next zone for rewards!
- Canberra to Sydney to Melbourne. CBR-SYD is 147miles (no difference VA vs GCM). 147 + 456 = 603 miles! Economy becomes 11800pts and Business 23500pts
- Darwin to Sydney to Melbourne. DRW-SYD is 1961miles (1957miles on GCM). 1961 + 456 = 2417 miles! Economy becomes 22300pts and Business 49500pts
A check over at Qantas confirms the CBR-SYD-MEL itinerary can be booked for 8000pts in economy and DRW-SYD-MEL can be booked for 18000pts.
Whilst I haven't booked these itineraries, I am keen to hear from others if they have in the past and whether this has always been the case. I am convinced this is deliberate and misleading.