Start date for Qantas and Emirates alliance - April or July?

[fjc]

According to Qantas' initial press release, the alliance will start in April. However, an article in AFR yesterday said 1 July.
Unravelling the Qantas Frequent Flyer code

A friend is flying LHR / SYD late April / early May 2013, and I told her about the proposed changes. Now, I don't know what to tell her.

Have QF changed the start date?

 

[Foreigner]

From Emirates website, April 2013, subject to regulatory approval.

http://www.emirates.com/au/english/...?intcid=emirates_qantas_230x210_tcm276-972242

 

[DrAndyC]

Im left wondering too.... I have a F segment LHR-SIN early May. Would like to cancel if I am being redirected via Dubai.

 

[Newk]

I can see it being a problem until it is firmly in place..who wants to book now only to find things changed later.

For instance I am planning a trip to Italy next June/July. It would be great to go Emirates/Qantas via Middle East but while it's all uncertain I might consider going on Cathay Pacific

 

[RSD]

Or book a April 2013 onwards Oz-SIN in F or J and SIN-LHR in Y and then when the route changes are made you will get Oz-DXB (the long leg) in F or J and DXB-LHR in Y