Status Runs: Bridge a Status Credit Shortfall

What should you do if your Qantas Frequent Flyer membership year is coming to an end, and you’re just short of the required status credits to reach a higher status tier?

One solution is to go on a “status run”. This is where a frequent flyer travels in order to earn status credits. The key here is to earn the most status credits for the least amount of money. Frequent flyer status levels are determined by the number of status credits earned in your membership year, and these all-important status credits can only be earned by flying. So if you’re short, it might be time to take a trip somewhere!

Recently a Melbourne-based member found themselves 110 status credits short of attaining Qantas Platinum status. With the help of our members, they will now be able to reach their target.

I will reach WP status with Qantas this year for the first and only time and need to attain 110 SC’s by the end of April. MEL is home for me.

Can anyone steer me in the right direction to earn these SC’s. An overnight stay is OK, just want the most value.

A number of helpful routings were suggested. 110 status can be earned within Australia for under $1,000 in numerous ways. Flying to from Melbourne to the Gold Coast, either direct in Business Class or via Sydney in Flexible Economy, is a popular and economical method.

Cairns is also a destination worth considering. A return Melbourne to Cairns trip, stopping in Brisbane is both directions, would net 120 status at a cost of under $900.

MEL-BNE-CNS return in Flex for $870 nets 120 SC

Another method to earn 120 status credits for just $534 has been discovered, however this will only work with a limited-time sale fare.

Qantas often sells First Class tickets on Emirates’ flights from New Zealand to Australia for just $900. This flight would also earn our member 120 status credits, and in great style too!

Serious status chasers often take advantage of the relatively cheap status credit runs available in the United States when flying American Airlines’ domestic First Class. There are some extraordinary deals to be had in the States, however one must first get to there in order to take advantage! In the meantime, it seems there are still some good deals to be had on home soil.

Share your experience HERE.

The editor of Australian Frequent Flyer, Matt's passion for travel has taken him to over 70 countries… with the help of frequent flyer points, of course!
Matt's favourite destinations (so far) are Germany, Brazil & Kazakhstan. His interests include economics, aviation & foreign languages, and he has a soft spot for good food and red wine.

You can connect with Matt by posting on the Australian Frequent Flyer community forum and tagging @AFF Editor.
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