The Journey

At the end of the day it's all about "The Journey". This popular topic covers the planning, booking, the flight, and then the arrival at you destination. Dive into this section to explore tips and advice for every step of your journey.

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Booking Battle: Online Travel Agents vs Airline

When booking flights, online travel agents like Bestjet, CheapOair and Trip.com are often cheaper than the airline’s own website. But are the savings worth it? An AFF member was recently searching for three Singapore Airlines Business class tickets. Laffer found the same flights available on Bestjet.com for $1,500 cheaper than Singapore Airlines’ own website. It is … Continued

Podcast #39: How Noise Cancelling Headphones Work

When to Call Airlines for the Fastest Service

If you’ve ever had to call an airline – especially Qantas – you’ve probably had the frustrating experience of an extended wait on hold. But it doesn’t have to be this way! By calling at off-peak times, you’ll be served much faster. So, when exactly is the best time to call Qantas and other airlines? … Continued

Singapore Airlines family flight attendant economy

Flying Economy Has its Perks

There are very few people that would turn down an upgrade to Business or First Class. In fact, many of us go to great lengths to avoid sitting in a cramped seat at the back of the plane for a few hours. But one AFF member believes that flying cattle class has its perks. Sure, … Continued

29 Nov 2018 In Flight
Qantas Hangs Up on Platinum Member Requesting Refund

Airlines Play Blame Game as Passenger Awaits Refund

An Air New Zealand customer is significantly out of pocket after a series of unfortunate events that none of the three airlines involved are willing to take responsibility for. While Air New Zealand, Qantas and Emirates play the blame game, this passenger is still waiting for a refund. Artorias was booked to fly across the Tasman … Continued

29 Oct 2018 Post Flight
Final call

Last Call for Hong Kong Fuel Surcharge Loophole

There’s just one week left to take advantage of Hong Kong’s fuel surcharge ban! From 1 November 2018, fuel surcharges on award flights departing from Hong Kong will no longer be regulated. This will likely lead to a sharp increase in the taxes and carrier charges you’ll pay when redeeming points out of Hong Kong. … Continued

Paris, France

Europe Early Bird Sales Released for 2019

It’s that time of year again when all the airlines discount their airfares to Europe for travel in the following year! Qantas, Emirates, Qatar, Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines and many other airlines have all released Europe early bird sale fares. Right now, you can book a return ticket from Australia to Europe on a full-service … Continued

Qantas 747

Hong Kong Fuel Surcharge Ban Lifted

Fuel surcharges on flights departing Hong Kong are set to increase dramatically after the Hong Kong government elected to end the current ban. Following months of speculation the Hong Kong fuel surcharge ban will finally be removed from 1 November 2018, allowing airlines once again to set their own charges. Booking award flights originating in Hong … Continued

Many Qantas Economy fare classes are ineligible to earn Qpoints or Qmiles, even on international flights

Economy Meals on Qantas & Virgin Australia Domestic Flights

Enjoy a meal on your flight? Within Australia, both Qantas and Virgin Australia offer complimentary food and drinks on all flights. But exactly what you’ll get depends on the airline, time of day and length of the flight. On some flights you’ll get a full hot meal with complimentary wine and beer, while on others … Continued

3 Sep 2018 In Flight
Rome, Italy

5-Star Business Class to Europe from $3,000 return

There are currently some super Business Class deals from Australia to Europe! Thanks to a Hainan Airlines sale, Business tickets from as little as $3,000 return are available from Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Cairns. Destinations on sale include Rome, London, Paris, Madrid and Brussels. The flights are with Hainan Airlines, which has a 5-star Skytrax … Continued

Empty wallet

The Tricks Airlines Use to Deny EU261 Compensation

Unlike in Australia, Europe has a government-mandated compensation scheme that forces airlines to compensate passengers affected by delayed, cancelled and overbooked flights. European airlines – and non-European airlines flying from Europe – are legally required to pay compensation to passengers delayed over two hours. In theory, this is a very consumer-friendly system that prevents airlines … Continued

29 Jul 2018 Post Flight