Recommendation on Flight Timing and Routing MEL-BNE-DXB-LHR QF and EK

[FF98]

Hi All,

Heading to Europe with the Mrs originally via Qatar J return via Velocity, but have came across BNE-DXB-LHR via Emirates First that lines up with my itinerary as well.
Last year of Qantas Silver and don't forsee myself hitting Silver anytime in the future so im keen to get Emirates First.

I am based in Mel. QF and EK through check baggages regardless if it is single or separate tickets so my bags will be checked through regardless.

Conundrum is how conservative should I be for my arrival time in BNE? Noting Emirates BNE lounge and counters open at 5pm.

BNE-DXB departs at 9pm. Currently considering MEL-BNE:

1. QF620 depart 2:20pm, arrive 3:40pm (Classic Plus 17,900 points + $59 or $219. cash)
2. QF622 depart 3:40pm, arrive 5pm (Classic Reward 13,800 points + $59, or $219 cash)

Ideally I'd like to book it all in a single itinerary which means classic rewards all the way, as I believe I will be protected if MEL-BNE is significantly delayed?
But unsure if I should be more conservative and book QF620? As it is a Classic Plus, I might have to try and call to piece the itinerary together.
Also another consideration of the points difference in the domestic leg or I should just pay cash?

Thanks brain trusts!

 

[John82]

I'll wait for the experts but if it's all on one ticket you're protected (separate tickets QF-QF may protect you anyway).

Why not book for the later one on one ticket and if there's any delays let them rebook you.

It's a frequent service, worse comes to worse they rebook you on a different MEL-BNE. If things get really bad they rebook you on a different F seat but that seems pretty dire if you're at that stage.

My 2c but again, let the experts weigh in.