can't go from Dubai to central europe? Huh?

[rechoboam]

We are looking to redeem some J FF fares to Europe late next year, probably to Vienna or Switzerland. Although I don't really like Dubai or its airport, we did assume that at least we would have the Melbourne/Dubai/Vienna flights, which are the quickest way into central Europe. But apparently we can only be routed via London?? I don't mind going there actually as I used to live there and can show the kids, but really, wasn't the whole selling point that improved connections to Europe (rather than backtracking from London) would result?

 

[aikman]

It doesn’t look like you can book award flights on Emirates until after their partnership starts in April. If you want to book now, there's always Dubai-Amman-Vienna on Royal Jordanian.

 

[Newk]

yes, I think this transition period (between ACCC interim and final authorisation and then implementation) is problematic.
We want to travel to Italy in June. Leaving from Adelaide on an Emirates flight that goes at exactly the right time on exactly the right day.
But being wedded to Qantas (approaching a seven figure family tally of points) we are holding out until the final go ahead so as to maximise QFF points and SC ​if possible
Cross fingers that it all comes together

 

[RB]

yes, I think this transition period (between ACCC interim and final authorisation and then implementation) is problematic.
We want to travel to Italy in June. Leaving from Adelaide on an Emirates flight that goes at exactly the right time on exactly the right day.
But being wedded to Qantas (approaching a seven figure family tally of points) we are holding out until the final go ahead so as to maximise QFF points and SC ​if possible
Cross fingers that it all comes together

I guess you have been reading the thread re hoarding points!

 

[Newk]

I guess you have been reading the thread re hoarding points!

slightly OT sorry...but yes, I am saving the points. But go back one step further: I was always an accumulator of points but not a great accumulator. After being put onto this site I have learnt how to maximise point earn. Still working my way to maximum point burn. I have one pre-existing return economy flight to USA which may be too hard to change. After that I don't think I'll ever need to fly international economy again.

And upon reflection, and back to the topic, if the Qantas/Emirates tie in comes off, the June flight may also be an opportunity for burning some of the stack

 

[Newk]

And back to the original post. I have been wondering if you do book the trip to Vienna/Switzerland/where-ever routed through LHR (arrrgggghhhh:awful place) and the arrangement gets approval could you could then ask to go direct from Dubai to Vienna/Switzerland/where-ever

Are we upsetting anyone here by discussing this in this thread and not the Qantas/Emirates thread? If so I will not be offended if moved

Regards to all the hard working moderators

 

[medhead]

I have a similar issue but looking for paid flights to BCN. Qantas Facebook has advised to just book the flights via LHR for now. Once the codeshares with emirates are loaded apparently it will be possible to change onto a direct DXB-BCN flight.

I'm not sure that'll work in practice. But just wanted to share.

 

[Newk]

I have a similar issue but looking for paid flights to BCN. Qantas Facebook has advised to just book the flights via LHR for now. Once the codeshares with emirates are loaded apparently it will be possible to change onto a direct DXB-BCN flight.

I'm not sure that'll work in practice. But just wanted to share.

excellent. More information to add to the mix. Thanks
And it's even more complex for me because I can book Q now and likely go Adelaide/Sydney/Dubai/Heathrow/Milan OR wait and just go Adelaide/Dubai/Milan. Remembering that the the potential Emirates flight from Adelaide leaves at just the right time after a mooted family function (the in-laws )

 

[rechoboam]

Called them for more detailed info and they stated that I would need to pay a change fee once the new flights are put out, I would be surprised if it came to that.