Using Velocity points for flights from London

[WristyManchego]

I'm making the move to London soon for a few years and will probably do a lot of travelling while I'm there. Am I able to use my points for flights out of London to other EU countries etc?
Anyone have any info on this?

 

[Jack_OC]

I'm making the move to London soon for a few years and will probably do a lot of travelling while I'm there. Am I able to use my points for flights out of London to other EU countries etc?
Anyone have any info on this?

You can redeem Velocity points on numerous airlines that fly to/from the UK (Air Berlin, Delta, Virgin Atlantic, Etihad, Singapore Airlines, South African Airlines and Air NZ). However, of those, I think only Air Berlin flies within the EU.

Also, it can be challenging to find award availability on partner airlines with Velocity points, and in most cases you have to call up - you can only book online with Delta, Etihad and Singapore. That said, I recently (eventually!) managed to get 4 J awards on a transatlantic Delta flight using Velocity points.

 

[Jack_OC]

PS - for short haul travel within the EU, redeeming points is usually a waste of time, even if it is possible. You can often get cash fares that are only a few $ more than the taxes/charges that come with an award booking. And "business class" usually just means you get to sit near the front with an empty seat beside you - the actual seat is the same as economy, and there is often no proper meal service.

 

[ChipChip]

PS - for short haul travel within the EU, redeeming points is usually a waste of time, even if it is possible. You can often get cash fares that are only a few $ more than the taxes/charges that come with an award booking. And "business class" usually just means you get to sit near the front with an empty seat beside you - the actual seat is the same as economy, and there is often no proper meal service.

Agree. Last week I flew to London return from Göteborg for less than the tax component of a reward using QFF points on BA one way. Didnt even look at VA redemptions after that. If you are planning on travelling alot and are accustomed to lounge access in Aus, suggest getting a Priority Pass.

 

[Saab34]

It was cheaper for me earlier in the year to buy the fares direct from Virgin Atlantic to fly Heathrow-Aberdeen and Manchester than buy with Velocity points.

FYI Virgin Atlantic next month are ceasing all UK domestic flights.