Airlines, Miles and Points

Airlines, miles, and points is the most popular topic at Australian Frequent Flyer. In this category, we provide expert tips, insider tricks, and facilitate discussions about Qantas, Virgin Australia, non-Australian airlines, and global airline alliances. From earning and redeeming frequent flyer points to maximising elite status benefits, we aim to help you get the most out of your travel. We also cover every step of the journey – from planning and booking flights to experiencing the flight itself, and finally, arriving at your destination. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or just starting to explore the world of frequent flyer programs, you'll find valuable advice to elevate your travel experience. See below for articles on airlines, miles and points.

Premium Economy Disappointment

Premium Economy is an increasingly popular middle-ground between Economy and Business class. But according to one disappointed member, the experience is NOT worth the premium price-tag. This member flew Singapore Airlines to Europe and back, paying significantly more than an Economy ticket. But they did not find the Premium Economy service to be a marked … Continued

Cheap flights to Hawaii

How to Fly to Hawaii on Points

Hawaii is a hugely popular destination for Australian travellers, but getting there with frequent flyer points can be a huge challenge. Frequent flyer reward seats to Hawaii can be very limited indeed, particularly in Business class. So, what are your options for getting from Australia to Hawaii with frequent flyer points? There are currently three … Continued

Qantas A380 Business class

Qantas Increases Upgrade Rates

Qantas has quietly announced a range of price increases for upgrades using Qantas points across its domestic and international network. The cost of a points upgrade will increase by as much as 25% on some routes, with those upgrading from cheaper Economy class tickets hit the hardest under the revised rates. For domestic flights, the … Continued

21 Nov 2016 Qantas
American Airlines jets at Washington National Airport

The End of Cheap US Status Runs

The United States has traditionally been a popular destination for frequent flyers looking for an inexpensive path to Qantas status. Two classes of service are offered on most American Airlines domestic flights, where the premium cabin is marketed as “First class” rather than the usual “Business class”. Domestic First class tickets on American are typically inexpensive, and … Continued

FREE Status with Qantas and Virgin Australia!

Our members have discovered a way to enjoy the benefits of Silver status on both Qantas and Virgin Australia for free! In just a few easy steps, you can enjoy perks like priority check-in, extra baggage allowance and even a complimentary car hire status match. The trick is to register for a current Air Berlin promotion. Air … Continued

Denied Entry to Another Country: Who’s at Fault?

One member recently had the unfortunate experience of being denied entry to a country because they did not have the correct visa. This member inadvertently flew with Qantas to Papua New Guinea without the necessary visa, and was sent on the next flight back to Australia after being stopped at the border. I had a rather … Continued

16 Nov 2016 Post Flight

Qantas Points Refused

A Qantas flyer is bitterly disappointed after the airline refused to award any points or status credits for their flight. The Qantas flight to Shanghai was booked directly on the airline’s website. Our member had been relying on the status credits to reach the next status tier. Qantas advertises that all Qantas flights booked on its … Continued

10 Nov 2016 Qantas
Lufthansa, Austrian and Emirates planes at Hamburg Airport.

Flight Delayed? You Could Earn $860!

Flight delays can be frustrating, but sometimes there’s a silver lining. If you’re flying on a European airline, or any other airline on a flight departing Europe, you could be entitled to compensation. The European Union has generous laws designed to help passengers affected by flight delays and cancellations. The “EU261” regulations entitle passengers to … Continued

9 Nov 2016 Post Flight
Free Qantas Platinum status gift

Qantas Enhances Loyalty Bonus

Qantas Frequent Flyer members can now opt to earn 50 bonus status credits with each loyalty bonus. The Qantas loyalty bonus is awarded each time a member earns 500 status credits from flights on Qantas or Jetstar, up to four times per membership year. Currently 8,000 points are awarded as part of the loyalty bonus. Members … Continued

7 Nov 2016 Qantas

Virgin Cuts Lounge Access

Virgin Australia passengers have lost access to Air New Zealand airport lounges, unless flying across the ditch. The changes come amidst reports that Virgin will also soon start charging domestic lounge guests for spirits. The lounges available to Gold & Platinum Velocity members, as well as Business passengers, on international flights will now depend on … Continued

Qantas 787 Dreamliner

Qantas Reveals New Logo, 787 Seats

Qantas has unveiled its Boeing 787 cabin configuration, along with a brand new logo and aircraft livery. The 787 Dreamliner, which enters service in late 2017, will feature 42 Business Suites, 28 Premium Economy and 166 Economy seats. The Business Suites will be similar in design to the current Airbus A330 suites, with a 1-2-1 configuration. … Continued

29 Oct 2016 Qantas

Pros & Cons of Switching Airline Loyalty

If you’re unhappy with your current airline of choice, the grass may look greener on the other side. But is it really worth taking the leap of faith and switching your airline loyalty? That’s the dilemma currently faced by one Platinum Virgin Australia flyer. While they’re feeling underwhelmed with Virgin, they don’t want to lose … Continued

24 Oct 2016 Virgin Australia