Article: How to Write an Effective Airline Complaint

[Warks]

Well it was a quick response. I got a very AI looking response just then where they said sorry and gave me the points I requested. As they granted it so easily I'm always left with the feeling I could have asked for a lot more, but then I might have had to fight for it. If I'd just left it open ended I'm not sure I would have got anything though.

 

[Dmac59]

Well it was a quick response. I got a very AI looking response just then where they said sorry and gave me the points I requested. As they granted it so easily I'm always left with the feeling I could have asked for a lot more, but then I might have had to fight for it. If I'd just left it open ended I'm not sure I would have got anything though.

A good outcome @Warks

 

[Warks]

A good outcome @Warks

Yes and I can say if not for AFF I may not have been prompted to complain at all, I may have just forgotten it. Although I doubt it. But it was a call to action.

 

[Youfah Mizzum]

Re post #13, so I submitted a complaint sort of along the lines of @sudoer 's example.

And lo & behold, this email just arrived.

Thank you for contacting Qantas Customer Care regarding your experience on flight QF59 from Sydney on 7 February 2026.

We sincerely apologise for the delay and the inconvenience it caused to your onward travel plans.

We understand the disruption this created for you and your companion, and we appreciate the thoughtful way you outlined your request. As a gesture of goodwill, we have credited 5,000 Qantas Points to each passenger’s Frequent Flyer account, as requested.

We value your loyalty and hope this helps to acknowledge the inconvenience you experienced. We look forward to welcoming you on board again soon under smoother circumstances.

 

[flyingfan]

Re post #13, so I submitted a complaint sort of along the lines of @sudoer 's example.

And lo & behold, this email just arrived.

Well done on the outcome, better than nothing.

Interesting they say 'the thoughtful way' of your email. They must get a lot of OTT demands and threats of going to sue, never flying again etc etc.

 

[Youfah Mizzum]

Interesting they say 'the thoughtful way' of your email. They must get a lot of OTT demands and threats of going to sue, never flying again etc etc.

Yeah indeed. I put no emotion into it and didn't want to ask for something stupid like a full refund of points so it was really just a token gesture of goodwill and apology asking for the 5000 points per pax.

I basically said "Hey guys, your flight was almost 4 hours late departing and I missed travel connections and hotel bookings. Although I am seeking financial compensation via travel insurance I reckon you can do me the courtesy of lobbing 5000 per passenger my way."
Obviously paraphrasing

I just checked my QFF account and points haven't arrived but it'll probably take a few days to process knowing QF and their systems.