More information has emerged about the proposed Qantas move to include the Canadian loyalty program Aeroplan as a strategic partner. The airline has confirmed it is planning a major restructure of how its loyalty program works and aims to improve benefits to customers. Qantas Chief Executive Geoff Dixon and head of the frequent flyer program Simon Hickey have flown to Montreal to talk to the company that manages Air Canada’s loyalty program, Aeroplan about how its program works. However, they have denied reports that Aeroplan has any intention to invest or take over the Qantas frequent flyer program.

Changes to the Qantas frequent flyer program that have been confirmed include a policy of more choice and greater flexibility. Qantas frequent flyers will be offered the choice of burning more points to gain access to any seat on a plane or paying less for unused seats traditionally set aside for their use. Qantas is now looking at making its entire inventory available to frequent flyers. However, people wanting to book a seat taken out of inventory that could have been sold would have to pay more points.

The changes are set to be implemented in March and June 2008.