Author: Matt Graham
Parental Status Pause: Qantas vs Virgin
New parents can now elect to pause their Qantas Frequent Flyer membership for up to 18 months. The family-friendly change has been welcomed by our members, but how does it compare to Virgin’s “Membership Pause” policy? Qantas’ new “Status Hold” is available to new parents, including foster parents, for up to 18 months. During the hold period, eligible members … Continued
Six Days of Luxury for $1,200!
Six days of ultimate luxury, involving First class flights and five-star hotels may sound like merely a dream. But this is exactly what one AFF member was recently lucky enough to experience. After flying from Australia to the UAE in First class on Etihad Airways, our member Moindardt spent three nights at a popular 5-star hotel in … Continued
New Restrictions on Qantas Award Availability?
It appears that Qantas is now severely restricting Classic Flight Reward seat access to Bronze frequent flyers, particularly in premium cabins. Members of oneworld and other partner airline programs wishing to redeem points for Qantas flights may also be affected. Our members have noticed a significant difference in the award availability seen on the Qantas website by … Continued
Macquarie Cuts Qantas Points
Macquarie is the latest Australian bank to slash the value of its credit card rewards offering. From next month, both of Macquarie’s Qantas Frequent Flyer-linked cards will see new caps on the number of Qantas points that can be earned at the full rate each month. Both the Macquarie Platinum and high-end Macquarie Black cards … Continued
Buying United Miles for Cheap First Class
United Airlines miles open up a world of opportunity when it comes to cheap Business and First class travel. United sells miles that can be redeemed for flights on any Star Alliance airline. With bonuses of up to 100% available from time to time, this makes it possible to fly to Asia in First Class … Continued
Qantas Downgrade Debacle
Following an involuntary downgrade from Business to Economy, one member is frustrated with Qantas’ refusal to offer any sort of refund or compensation. This member had originally booked a Business class ticket from Canberra to Singapore via Melbourne. But the domestic connection was later downgraded to Economy. Qantas offered no refund, and only begrudgingly agreed … Continued
A Taste of the “Suite” Life on Singapore Airlines
AFF member pythonisman recently enjoyed an opportunity to experience the “Suite” life on a trip to Singapore and Cambodia. Taking advantage of a special upgrade promotion, our member experienced one of the best ways to fly. I was headed to Singapore for a day for work, with a side trip tacked on at the tail … Continued
Travel Agents: Pros & Cons
This week our members discuss the pros and cons of booking with a travel agent. While some find travel agents invaluable, others see little benefit and prefer to book their own travel online. There are numerous reasons to book with an agent. As well as offering specialised advice, travel agents often have access to cheaper airfares … Continued
Virgin America Merging with Alaska Airlines
Virgin America Airlines will soon be taken over by US-based Alaska Airlines. As part of the acquisition, the Virgin America brand will eventually disappear, being absorbed into the Alaska Airlines brand. As was the case with the American Airlines/US Airways merger, the process will be a lengthy one. Both airlines promise that there will be … Continued