Is Virgin just being stingy?

[grubbidok]

Recently I've had to book two international long haul trips to Europe (London for April and Paris for July) and due to university policy will be making these trips, as I am required to make every trip, in Y. Even worse, they have to be in discount Y.

I was thinking of trying the VA flights, as I've enjoyed the LA trips I've done on VA. However, I note that for the booking classes the university would likely use, it would only be an earn rate of 0.5 per mile. I get the point of this arrangement on partners, but on their own VA metal or VA code does this seem a bit stingy?

I also get that SCs are understandably lower on these flights as to, and that makes sense. But the points issue just seems rather miserly.

In the end I've chosen Singapore flights in W. They were actually cheaper than VA fares, with both much (MUCH) better point and SC earns.

I also have to disclose that I am a recent QF escapee. Maybe I just need to stop comparing to what QF did (which was minimum 1 point per mile on all QF flights)? Doesn't really encourage me to fly VA internationally though (and I'm not the only one with a BFOD Y employer).

 

[samh004]

In regards to your question about reduced earn rates on their own metal, just look at "premium" Cathay Pacific... Some of their cheap fares don't even earn to their own program.

We've all been spoilt with the Qantas minimum points guarantee.

 

[mannej]

In regards to your question about reduced earn rates on their own metal, just look at "premium" Cathay Pacific... Some of their cheap fares don't even earn to their own program.

We've all been spoilt with the Qantas minimum points guarantee.

Same goes for SQ as well

 

[oz_mark]

You need to look at the overall program as there are always differences in programs that make some elements better or worse than other programs. Compared to many programs, Qantas is unusually generous on its discount fares.

 

[grubbidok]

You need to look at the overall program as there are always differences in programs that make some elements better or worse than other programs. Compared to many programs, Qantas is unusually generous on its discount fares.

Don't get me wrong. Largely happy with the switch. Guess, like many, I was just used to the QF way and the change takes some adjusting. Though I guess it should be noted that the generosity on earning points at QF certainly isn't extended to redeeming them. I have found VA much, much better in this regard (though do wish they'd hurry up and join Skyteam/*A/get more partners).

 

[lovestotravel]

I think it's fair enough !