There's been speculation in the travel industry that the Macquarie Bank-led consortium will sell the Qantas Frequent Flyer program for as much as $2-billion. If that happens observers say a huge bank of unused airline points might be "re" (or, more likely "de") valued.

A revaluation of the program may arise if points are sold to a non-airline commercial entity. When points becomes a currency of a non-airline company - and not just a way of filling empty airline seats - there'll be a whole new level of pressure to minimise the number of points awarded per kilometres flown. Thus the number of points you'll receive per kilometer flown will probably diminish.

However, Qantas bidder Australian Airline Partners has stated it has no plans to alter the frequent flyer scheme to the detriment of members. So it's probably not quite time to cash in all those unused points. At this stage the revaluation remains speculation, rumour, and maybe even idle gossip. We�ll be sure to keep you informed!

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Flexible Fares: Are they worth the cost?

Flexible airline tickets are undoubtedly more expensive, but are they worth the cost? Our members discuss the pros and cons of JETSTAR'S FLEXIBLE FARE POLICY.

Qantas Online Check-in One member vents frustration over the QANTAS ONLINE CHECK-IN SYSTEM. Add your experience here. Corporate travel Consultants Read our members tips on the who are the best (and worst!) CORPORATE TRAVEL CONSULTANTS. Qantas Club Food Few people have ever claimed airline food was supposed to be good. But it appears the culinary disasters served in the sky have filtered down into the QC lounge. Give us your opinion HERE.

Chairman�s Lounge Membership

Our members give one newbie advice on how to secure the coveted CHAIRMAN'S LOUNGE MEMBERSHIP.

Amex/ Qantas Partnership

Our members help one overwhelmed member cut through the red tape and work out the real deal with the Qantas/ Amex credit cards. Read their verdict HERE.

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Baggage Policy Change for British Airways

On February 13th British Airway's 'simpler' checked baggage policy will be implemented. The new policy allows up to three pieces of luggage for long-haul first class flights and up to two for shorter flights. The maximum weight for any one piece of luggage is 23kgs and excess baggage charges will apply for any luggage exceeding this weight. In addition, all passages are allowed to carry on one piece of sporting equipments free of charge.

Carrying Excess Weight on Board

On the issue of charges for excess weight� An overweight man was required to purchase an extra seat to accommodate his large frame on an Air France flight last month. The overweight passenger Jean-Jacques Jauffret has now sued Air France claiming he felt humiliated when Air France staff measured his waist in public at the New Delhi airport. Air France's website urges overweight passengers to reserve a second seat, adding that failure to do so might mean they are refused access to an aircraft if it is fully booked.

US Carry-On Luggage Just as the travel restrictions to the US appeared to be easing, a new and somewhat ambiguous regulation has emerged. Passengers may only carry on one bag plus a personal item - such as a purse, briefcase, backpack or similar - per passenger. This new regulation has left many of our members wondering if their luggage make the grade. Worlds Largest Airliner Declared Safe The world's largest airliner, the Airbus A380 Super Jumbo, has been officially declared safe to fly commercial services, capping six years of development marred by delays in deliveries to airlines. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) gave their approval in an unusual joint ceremony at the planemaker's French headquarters.

Pilot Restrained as Qantas Passenger Jet Landed

The pilot of a jet carrying 177 passengers was suffering from anxiety and stress when he was restrained from flying his plane as it landed at Melbourne Airport last month.

The captain of the Qantas Boeing 767-300 aircraft reported feeling unwell soon after take-off from Auckland, New Zealand, on May 12. An Australian Transport Safety Bureau report on the incident says the captain left the flight deck and was given oxygen after telling cabin crew he felt nauseous and shaky.

Elite frequent flyer membership used to be a passport to a better flying experience, offering access to special waiting areas, preferred seating and priority first-class upgrades.

However, in recent years frequent flyer status has come to represent more of an insurance policy against poor customer service. Whilst frequent flyers may be given a greater choice of seats and priority check-in's, it seems passengers without status are wedged into cramped spaces and forced to stand in lines that are getting longer and longer.

Does being a frequent flyer merely ensure a basic standard of customer service? We�d love to hear what you think - post your thoughts on our Discussion Board.