SQ or VA code-share BNE-PEK?

[FlashKiwi]

Need to go to PEK next week. Am DJ WP and flying Y.

Can either fly a SQ or VA code-share/SQ metal for very similar price (flexi so full economy).

Will get 2 x points on VA code-share (12000 extra points)

SQ is direct via SIN. VA code-share can go via SYD/MEL/ADL both ways for the extra 30 SC's (why fly direct )

As far as SQ are concerned does it matter, as DJ WP, whether my ticket is issued by SQ or VA? Key concern is priority seat allocation - not so worried about the extra points. Am I able to select a seat before checking in?

Can I assume I don't have lounge access in PEK as it is only a Partner Lounge?

Anybody had experience with SQ as DJ WP?

Thanks

FlashKiwi

 

[grubbidok]

Are you flying Discount Y or Full Y? What may be a discount Y status credit earn on VA code is often full Y on SQ (i.e. Double SCs), even on the same price ticket. Also double check booking codes, I believe the lower ones don't earn zip even with a VA number.

My only experience has been as Gold. TBH there's not a whole lot of status benefit in Y.

*edit* Sorry missed the Flexi comment. Just ignore what I said.

 

[MandM]

Need to go to PEK next week. Am DJ WP and flying Y.

Can either fly a SQ or VA code-share/SQ metal for very similar price (flexi so full economy).

Will get 2 x points on VA code-share (12000 extra points)

SQ is direct via SIN. VA code-share can go via SYD/MEL/ADL both ways for the extra 30 SC's (why fly direct )

As far as SQ are concerned does it matter, as DJ WP, whether my ticket is issued by SQ or VA? Key concern is priority seat allocation - not so worried about the extra points. Am I able to select a seat before checking in?

Can I assume I don't have lounge access in PEK as it is only a Partner Lounge?

Anybody had experience with SQ as DJ WP?

Thanks

FlashKiwi

Sorry to say no priority seating booking either way. If you book SQ you will be able to choose a seat when booking; with VA you will need to wait until check-in, or try the SQ call centre (with various degrees of success reported).

 

[rtyuiop]

I can suggest two things - check your booking class *very* carefully against the VFF earn tables and footnotes for both options.

And secondly, be prepared for the possibility of being one of the last people to check in and get a seat assigned if you're on the VA code. No guarantee of seat selection being available via the contact centre, and no online check in, so you are exposed to a significant risk of getting the dreaded middle seat...

SQ benefits for WPs work pretty much as advertised from what I've seen (priority bags, boarding, etc.), but don't expect anything extra... Occasionally at ports outside AU and Changi you may get access to a contract lounge that you're not actually supposed to have... Happens to me fairly frequently at BLR, but unfortunately it's the worst lounge I think I've ever seen!

 

[pblackie]

I flew SQ from PEK-SIN last year, usual benefits such as Priority baggage and boarding. You do have access to a contract lounge which left a lot to be desired unless you particularly like ropey Chinese wine and questionable food.

 

[FlashKiwi]

Thanks for the replies.

Think I will wing it on the VA code-share and snag the extra points. Shame VA is not more integrated with SQ re seat allocations

Crazy thing is that the QF ticket is $250 cheaper, but not the times I want, plus is discount economy SC's and have already re-qualified this year

I have had reasonably good luck on EY securing bulkhead seats (on EY ticket with VA status) (plus of course the first-class lounge in AUH)

Really trying to break my OW shackles.........