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.
Many airlines have been introducing Premium Economy in recent years as a “middle ground” between Economy and Business class. Most Premium Economy cabins offer seats with more width and legroom than Economy. Some airlines also offer improved meals and other comforts. For example, Qantas provides amenity kits for Premium Economy passengers. One member is considering … Continued
A Virgin flyer’s recent decision to treat themselves to a Business class upgrade ended in bitter disappointment. This member feels they received second class service, including last meal choice, because they had upgraded from an Economy ticket. This member watched on as full-fare paying passengers received blatantly preferential treatment. It seems the type of fare … Continued
Indonesia Air Asia X will suspend all flights from 1 September 2016. This will result in the cancellation of all flights between Sydney, Melbourne and Bali. Affected passengers have been contacted and given the option of a rebooking onto new flights, including via Kuala Lumpur, or travelling prior to the route suspensions in September. Passengers … Continued
This week one member reveals why they abandoned their loyalty to Qantas. After years of successive frequent flyer program devaluations, this member felt like their loyalty was no longer a two-way street. The loss of Any Seat Awards, reductions in earning rates on oneworld airlines and a loss of anytime lounge access all contributed to … Continued
This week our members discuss their frequent flyer point goals, and what they have done to reach them. Been thinking about this one for a while and I am wondering how long it has taken everyone to get the desired points needed for a specific purpose? What was the goal of your points, how did … Continued
Virgin Australia could fly to China from next year, with Beijing and Hong Kong flagged as possible new destinations. The flights would be operated by Airbus A330 aircraft currently used on most flights between the east coast and Perth. The announcement comes after HNA Group, which part-owns Chinese-based Hainan Airlines and Hong Kong Airlines, bought … Continued
Our members have discovered an ingenious new way to maximise Virgin Australia status credits when flying Delta. US-based Delta Airlines recently introduced “Comfort Plus”, a new class of travel on US domestic flights between Economy and First. Comfort Plus is similar to Premium Economy, with passengers receiving more legroom, complimentary meals and other benefits in … Continued
Virgin Australia’s in-flight service appears to be the latest victim of cost-cutting at the airline. While airfares continue to rise, many feel that the level of service provided by Virgin is actually decreasing. Instead of being served on a tray, meals on Virgin’s trans-continental flights to Perth are now wrapped in a napkin. Dessert is … Continued
A round-the-world trip is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. You’ll get to experience different cultures, taste new and exotic foods, speak different languages, meet new people, see sights not found anywhere else, and much, much more! If you’d like to travel around the world, the special round-the-world airfares offered by each of the three … Continued
Platinum status with Virgin Australia requires twice as many flights to earn as Gold status. But do the additional benefits of Platinum status justify the extra effort? Gold status comes with numerous worthwhile benefits including lounge access, priority boarding, Fly Ahead, and access to points upgrades on international flights. In addition to these benefits, Velocity … Continued
You’ve worked hard to build a healthy Qantas point balance, but what is the best way to spend them? This week our members share their tips and strategies to gain maximum value from your points. Premium cabin upgrades and reward flights, especially on long-haul international flights, are some of the best value, and most popular … Continued
Most passengers travelling between Australia and the United States want to get there as quickly and directly as possible. But if you enjoy flying, a more indirect routing can come as a welcome opportunity to try out some new airlines and visit some new cities along the way. One member is planning something quite different for their upcoming … Continued