Taking Advantage of JetStar - My Experiences

[whereishome]

I've just returned from a nice 2 week vacation to Japan - I flew Jetstar both ways (because it's on MY dollar this time as opposed to the company) and here's how I went about using some of the information I learned here on AFF to make it much nicer.

JQ11
OOL - NRT
- Had a JetSaver Light as I was only flying with carry on (planning to do lots of book shopping in Japan, so I needed the weight on the way back.)
- Did a fake booking 2 days before to check Starclass availability and plenty of seats left.
- Checked Seatcounter the morning of and still available seats.
- Arrived at OOL and went straight to Starclass check-in and asked for an ODU. AUD$250 and I was up the front in 3K.


JQ12
NRT-OOL
- Had a JetSaver ticket on the way back and checked seatcounter the morning I flew out. Still seats available.
- Got to NRT and the checkin line was HUGE. Japanese floor staff wouldn't let me in the Starclass line even when I pulled out my nicest, politest "on behalf of the company president to the visiting trade consul" Japanese so I waited 45 minutes in line.
- Managed another ODU, this time JP¥20000. 3K again!

Basically the difference between the fares I paid for + upgrade, as opposed to buying Starclass in the first place was about $1500. So far I have received points and status credits for the OOL-NRT leg, so hopefully I will be able to do the same for the return leg.

I know this isn't the final word on ODUs but it seems to be in-line with other people's experiences.

 

[Evan]

Yep, as long as you dont mind not getting it then it is the way to go !
I have done the same thing on BA PVG-LHR before.

I know this was a personal trip, but if ODU and its a work trip some or all of that expense can be tax deductible. This is not tax advise, always contact you accountant.

E

 

[whereishome]

I know this was a personal trip, but if ODU and its a work trip some or all of that expense can be tax deductible. This is not tax advise, always contact you accountant.

E

I'll keep that in mind. I'm tempted to see what my accountant says about this flight and it's business relationship. Is it a legitimate expense if I went drinking with friends and found out about vacancies that may be opening up in their companies?

 

[munitalP]

.... Is it a legitimate expense if I went drinking with friends and found out about vacancies that may be opening up in their companies?

You sound like my sales guys!!

Mr!

 

[Evan]

You sound like my sales guys!!

Mr!

Our company sales guys in Asia have drinking allowances ! As long as its legal if you get the sale then do it, meaning gold, drinks, dinner, whatever.
Now how do i get that !

E