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.

Lost Luggage Havoc

One member was shocked recently to discover their carry-on luggage had been stolen between boarding the plane and take-off. This member had placed their carry-on items including a computer and credit cards in the seat pocket after boarding. They then got up to use the bathroom before take-off, returning only to discover that the items … Continued

11 Jun 2015 In Flight

Uncertain future for Malaysia Airlines

The news was hardly surprising considering the airline’s recent financial woes, but Malaysia Airlines recently announced that they had gone into receivership. Fortunately, it seems that the airline will continue operating normally in spite of this, at least in the short to medium term. We do know that the airline will remain a part of … Continued

Velocity points earned with Agoda not posting

As Agoda is a partner of Virgin Australia, Velocity frequent flyers should be able to earn points by booking hotel accommodation online through the Agoda booking portal. However, some of our members have reported that the entitled points have not been posting properly. Are our members doing something wrong or is there a problem on … Continued

Toddlers in First Class: A Recipe for Disaster?

Screaming toddlers can be a nightmare anywhere, let alone on a long flight. But one member this week wonders if they are simply asking for trouble by taking their 18-month-old with them on a long flight in first class. Of prime concern to our member is the disruption and inconvenience a screaming infant could cause … Continued

28 May 2015 In Flight

High Fares: Qantas not Competitive

Our national airline is often a hot topic of debate on AFF. One member this week is frustrated by Qantas’ lack of competitiveness. Despite being a loyal Qantas flyer, a price difference of over $2,000 on a return flight to New York in business class is simply too much. Even though the member wants to … Continued

21 May 2015 Qantas

BP pumping out Velocity points by the tank

Virgin Australia Velocity has a shiny new partner. Velocity members can now earn 2 points per litre of petrol by filling up at BP petrol stations, as well as 2 points per dollar spent in-store. The new partnership is a welcome addition for our members who are more than happy to start taking advantage of … Continued

11 May 2015 Virgin Australia

Optus pulls the plug on Qantas partnership

Our members are disappointed that Optus will no longer award customers with Qantas points from July. A number of customers have threatened to leave the telco, while the news has frustrated some Optus customers on contracts they are unable to get out of. Optus became a Qantas Frequent Flyer partner to much fanfare in 2011. … Continued

4 May 2015 Qantas

No value in Virgin Flexi fares?

One member is frustrated at what they perceive as a considerable devaluation of Virgin’s more expensive Flexi fares. They complain that while the benefits have decreased, the prices of Flexi fares have soared. Flexi fares often cost triple the price of a standard Saver ticket. Can someone enlighten me on the benefit of booking a … Continued

28 Apr 2015 Virgin Australia
Singapore Merlion statue

Qantas reinstates Perth-Singapore flights, but they’re not daily

After a year-long hiatus and months of speculation, Qantas recently announced they are resuming flights between Perth and Singapore, with services to resume in June. The route was operated for many years until it was cut from the route map in an apparent cost-cutting exercise last year. The move angered many Perth-based flyers, who were … Continued

27 Apr 2015 Qantas

Maximising the full first class experience

Flying in first class on an international flight is something many of us would love to do if we had the chance. Luckily, thanks to many of the tricks discussed on AFF, first class flying is not out of reach. But for someone who has never experienced the luxury of the pointy end of the … Continued

21 Apr 2015 Qantas

Finally, free food on all Virgin flights

Virgin Australia began offering free food on all domestic flights last week. The news has been largely welcomed by our members, who have long complained of Virgin’s lack of consistency when it comes to in-flight service. Until now, those on flights between the east coast and Perth already received a complimentary hot meal. However the … Continued

20 Apr 2015 Virgin Australia