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.
Having saved up a healthy balance of Qantas points, one member wishes to use them to fly in Business class to Rome. But they’re now faced with an all-too-common dilemma: Redeem the points for a Business ticket, or try to upgrade with frequent flyer points from an Economy ticket? Buying an Economy ticket and requesting … Continued
One member is considering abandoning their loyalty to Virgin Australia in favour of a “best fare of the day” policy. This member currently holds Platinum status with Virgin. But they are constantly finding that they can fly on overseas airlines in Premium Economy – or even Business class – for the same price as Economy … Continued
Surviving long-haul flights in “cattle class” can be a challenge at the best of times. But there’s now a way to ease the pain and guarantee a whole row to yourself on an international Qantas flight! Short of an upgrade, there’s not much better than two empty neighbouring seats when you’re stuck in Economy a long international … Continued
The extensive alliance between Qantas and Emirates has failed to deliver on its promises of improved service and choice for flyers, according to one member. Successive reductions in benefits for Qantas customers flying Emirates are just part of a long list of complaints. Our members particularly lament the loss of many Qantas international flights. Flights to Europe … Continued
In order to retain status with any airline, you generally need to do a certain amount of flying each year. Qantas Platinum members, for example, need to earn 1,200 status credits each membership year in order to retain Platinum Qantas status. But it may be possible to renew your status, even if you fall short … Continued
In recent weeks, Virgin Australia expanded its frequent flyer program partnership with BP. Virgin Velocity points can now be redeemed for petrol at any BP service station in Australia. This complements the existing ability to earn Velocity points on all BP purchases. Our members generally welcome new ways to earn and redeem frequent flyer points. … Continued
Did you know that it’s possible to travel around the world for just a little over $2,000? One member discovered this recently while planning a round-the-world trip of their own. This member was researching fares in Economy class, with a preference for oneworld airlines. Does anyone know of a good value round the world fare that uses … Continued
If you’re having trouble using your Virgin Velocity points to book a reward flight, you’re not alone. It appears that the Virgin Australia website is currently displaying very limited reward seat availability, particularly for flights on Etihad and Singapore Airlines. In many cases, reward flight searches on the Virgin website are bringing up only the more … Continued
One member is currently trying to determine the best Oneworld frequent flyer program to join. This member travels three times per year between Australia and the UK in Business class. Status is the most important consideration for this member, however the ease and value of earning & burning points is also a factor. So my … Continued
Virgin Velocity Gold status comes with tons of benefits when you fly with Virgin Australia or any of its partner airlines, such as Air New Zealand or Singapore Airlines. These include lounge access, bonus points and the ability to change to an earlier flight for free. Gold Velocity status even comes with complimentary hotel loyalty … Continued
If you’ve ever tried to book a one-way international flight, you may have discovered it’s more expensive than buying a return ticket! This week our members reveal their strategies to beat the one-way price hike and save hundreds of dollars. Many airlines penalise passengers for booking one-way, rather than round-trip international tickets. But one-way bookings … Continued
Frustrated Qantas customers are waiting longer than ever to speak to a call centre agent. Hold times of well over an hour are now normal, and numerous members have reported waiting 3 or even 4 hours. Call dropouts and promises of call backs that don’t eventuate also make the long list of Qantas call centre complaints … Continued