Qantas says it is making it easier for members of its frequent flyer programme to use their points on domestic and Trans-Tasman flights.
“We’re adding more Points Planes [flights exclusively reserved for Qantas Frequent Flyers] and more reward seats to our most popular domestic destinations, because that’s where people will be holidaying for the rest of the year,” said Qantas CEO Alan Joyce.
The Australian carrier has removed the inventory for nearly all of its international flights until March 2021. It is still operating domestic flights.
Qantas to cancel nearly all international flights until March 2021: report
The carrier is increasing Classic Flight Reward seat availability by “up to 50 per cent” to destinations in Australia and New Zealand including Cairns, Sunshine Coast, Sydney, Queenstown and Auckland (when flights recommence), for the rest of 2020.
The Australian carrier says it has also introduced the following improvements to its frequent flyer programme:
Extra status credits
Eligible Silver, Gold, Platinum and Platinum One members will automatically receive 50 per cent of the status credits they need annually to keep their tier. Qantas says “members most impacted”, such as those whose membership year started at the peak of travel restrictions, will also be eligible for additional monthly status credits support.
Loyalty Bonus’ for members will now also count towards reaching or retaining platinum one status until December 31, 2021. For every 500 status credits earned by a member, they receive a Loyalty Bonus of either 50 status credits or 8,000 Qantas points.
Better value on accommodation
The number of points required for points plus pay Qantas hotels bookings will decrease by 20 per cent effective immediately. The airline says the discount only applies to the points component of points plus pay booked before 11:59 AEST, December 31 this year and excludes classic hotel rewards.
For a limited time only, members will also receive 5,000 points back when they book a minimum of three nights and on selected Qantas luxury offers, members can earn up to 125 bonus status credits when they book before August 31.
Flexibility in booking
Bookings made using points on Qantas Group flights will have any change or cancellation fees waived until October 31.
More Points Planes
Qantas Frequent Flyer will launch more Points Planes – exclusive flights for frequent flyer redemptions – to “meet the pent-up travel demand of members and boost Australian tourism”. Qantas says timings and destinations of the flights will be released over the coming months.
New digital services
Qantas is launching “Dream Planner” on July 28. The initiative uses real time data and notifications to keep members informed on reward seat availability and special offers to their preferred destinations.
