Get ready for an incredible opportunity to redeem from 1 million award seats exclusively for Royal Orchid Plus members. Whether you’re planning a dream vacation, a crucial business trip, or a visit to loved ones, now is the perfect time to put your miles to work!

Booking Period: 1 – 21 November 2024
Travel Period: From 1 January 2025 onwards

Simply log in to your Royal Orchid Plus account, choose your ideal destination, and secure your award seat. With limited availability, act fast to make your travel dreams a reality!

Terms & Conditions:

• Award seats are available for THAI Air Awards across both domestic and international destinations.
• Seat availability is determined on a first-come, first-served basis.
• The number of award seats in each cabin class is subject to travel demand and the aircraft’s configuration.
• Standard Royal Orchid Plus THAI Awards Terms & Conditions apply.

Contact your points advisor for more information.

The post Unlock a Million Award Seats with Your Miles! | Thai Airways appeared first on Points Advisor.

Qantas Points: More Required Across the Board

Qantas has announced a sweeping change in its frequent flyer program that will see a 10-20% increase in Qantas Points needed for redemptions and upgrades. This marks only the second such hike since 2004, and the first since 2019. According to Qantas Loyalty CEO Andrew Glance, these changes are designed to keep the program sustainable while continuing to expand seat availability for Classic and Classic Plus Rewards.

These changes will affect all frequent flyers, no matter the cabin class—from economy to first class.

Lock In Lower Qantas Points Rates Before August

If you’re planning to use your Qantas Points for a trip, your best strategy is to book early. Classic Reward seats can be secured up to 11 months in advance, meaning you can still lock in lower rates for travel as far ahead as June 2026—provided you book before August 5, 2025.

Earn More Qantas Points on Paid Flights

There’s a silver lining for frequent flyers: from July 2025, Qantas is also increasing the number of Qantas Points earned on paid flights. Domestic flights will earn up to 25% more points, and the ‘status bonus’ cap for premium cabins—previously limited to Flexible Economy rates—will be abolished. This change allows bonus points to be earned on the full base fare, with Qantas estimating an additional 4 billion points entering circulation annually.

Key Increases in Qantas Points Redemptions

Economy Flight Redemptions

Expect to pay approximately 10-15% more Qantas Points for Classic Flight Reward seats in economy class. While most international routes in premium cabins will see a 20% increase, shorter flights up to 2,400 miles will rise by just 5%.

Upgrades

If you typically use Qantas Points for upgrades, prepare for higher costs:

• Domestic upgrades from economy to business will increase by:
  • 15% for short routes (under 1,200 miles like Sydney-Melbourne or Brisbane-Melbourne)
  • 20% for longer routes (e.g., transcontinental flights)
• International upgrades will see
  • A 10% increase for flights under 3,600 miles (e.g., Perth-Singapore)
  • A 20% hike for longer international routes

In addition, the cash surcharge for Classic Reward seats—termed ‘carrier charges’—will rise. For example, a business class Classic Reward seat from Sydney to London will now require an additional $648, up from $473, a 35% increase.

Around-the-World Flights with Qantas Points

The highly sought-after Oneworld Classic Flight Reward for around-the-world travel is also becoming more expensive. This redemption, which includes up to 15 flights and five stopovers across 35,000 miles, will increase significantly:

• Premium Economy: 249,600 → 287,000 Qantas Points
• Business Class: 318,000 → 365,800 Qantas Points
• First Class: 455,000 → 523,200 Qantas Points

If you’ve been saving your points for this golden opportunity, now’s the time to act before the increase takes effect.

Changes for Partner Airline Redemptions

Qantas Points needed for flights with partner airlines are also on the rise. Emirates premium cabins will now require 5-10% more points, though economy class rates may slightly decrease for longer flights.

Redemptions with other partner airlines—including Oneworld members, China Airlines, and starting October 2025, Hawaiian Airlines—will also increase by approximately 15-20%, aligning with Qantas’ new internal rates.

Jetstar Offers Relief with Lower Qantas Points

Not all the news is bad. In a rare exception, Jetstar is lowering the Qantas Points cost for many domestic routes. For flights under 600 miles—making up nearly half of Jetstar’s domestic offerings—Classic Reward seats will drop from 6,400 to 5,700 Qantas Points.

Popular routes benefiting from this decrease include:

• Sydney to Melbourne
• Sydney to Brisbane
• Sydney to Gold Coast
• Melbourne to Adelaide
• Melbourne to Tasmania

Summing up

With Qantas Points set to undergo their most significant value adjustment in years, now is the time to act if you’re planning a trip. Lock in your Classic Reward redemptions or upgrades before August 5, 2025, to avoid the higher rates. On the bright side, enhanced earning opportunities and cheaper Jetstar redemptions offer some balance to these changes.

Talk to one of our First and Business class booking experts to help make the most of your points before the increases take effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post Qantas Points Increase by 10-20% for Flights and Upgrades: What You Need to Know appeared first on Points Advisor.

Unlock Exclusive Rewards and Loyalty Benefits for Frequent Flyers

Oman Air recently announced an expanded partnership with Qantas that will allow members of each airline’s loyalty programs to redeem points across both networks. This partnership opens up Oman Air’s extensive Middle Eastern, European, and Asian network to Qantas Frequent Flyer members, while Oman Air’s Sindbad members gain access to Qantas’ expansive routes across Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific.

The airlines’ existing interline partnership will soon offer:

• Redeemable Miles: Sindbad members can redeem miles on Qantas flights, and Qantas members will enjoy the same benefit on Oman Air flights.
• Earning Opportunities: Expanded earning options for loyalty members as Oman Air prepares to join the Oneworld alliance in 2025.

Perspectives from Industry Leaders

Oman Air CEO, Con Korfiatis, emphasised the benefits of this enhanced alliance:

“Our partnership with Qantas reinforces our commitment to providing even greater value to our members, offering more ways to redeem miles and explore Oman. As we prepare to join the Oneworld alliance next year, we look forward to providing additional seamless travel rewards across member airlines.”

Similarly, Qantas Loyalty CEO Andrew Glance highlighted the appeal for Qantas members:

“Our members value international reward seats and have shown a strong interest in exploring new destinations and will be welcome news to travellers planning their next adventure. Oman Air offers a premium experience, with a modern fleet and services that match those of leading global carriers.”

Sindbad – Oman Air’s Premier Loyalty Program

Oman Air’s Sindbad loyalty program provides a range of exclusive benefits for frequent flyers, including:

• Three Tier Levels: Each tier offers a range of privileges, including airport lounge access, additional baggage allowance, and priority boarding.
• Earning and Spending Miles: Members can earn and redeem Sindbad miles both in the air and on the ground through an extensive network of partners.
• International Travel Benefits: Members will soon enjoy enhanced international access through Qantas and other Oneworld airlines.

Qantas Frequent Flyer Program: An Overview

Qantas Frequent Flyer program boasts over 16 million members, with four elite tiers:

• Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Platinum One levels, each offering progressively exclusive perks.
• A comprehensive reward program that allows points redemption across Qantas’s network and partnerships with Oman Air and other Oneworld airlines.
• Enhanced travel options for those seeking both domestic and international journeys.

Oman Air’s Premium Business and First Class Suites

Oman Air Business Apex Suites

Travellers in Oman Air’s Business Apex Suites, featured on the B787 Dreamliner, can enjoy:

• Private walkways for each window seat in a 2-2-2 configuration.
• Fully flat beds measuring 193 cm, with privacy dividers.
• Panoramic views from up to four windows for passengers in window seats.

Oman Air Business Studios

The newly introduced Oman Air Business Studio combines functionality with Omani heritage:

• A generous 82” pitch, privacy walls, and a 23-inch personal screen.
• Omani architectural inspiration in design elements like archways and soft closing doors for exclusivity.
• Centre seats with adjustable dividers to ensure maximum privacy.

Destinations and Hub Connectivity

Oman Air serves key destinations across the globe, with notable connections in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. This network, supported by hubs in Muscat (MCT) and interline agreements with airlines such as Qantas, Thai Airways, and Etihad, enhances global accessibility for passengers.

Key destinations include:

• Asia: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, Kochi, and Chennai.
• Middle East: Doha, Dubai, Kuwait, Riyadh, and Jeddah.
• Europe: London, Frankfurt, Munich, Milan, Paris, and Rome.

Why Choose Oman Air?

With its boutique approach to airline service, Oman Air is often regarded as the Middle East’s underrated luxury carrier. Founded in 1993, Oman Air has evolved from a regional airline to a global carrier renowned for its exceptional service and commitment to luxury travel. With its hub at Muscat International Airport, Oman Air has established itself as a key airline in the Middle East, flying to over 50 destinations worldwide. As a member of the prestigious Oneworld alliance beginning in 2025, Oman Air continues to enhance its global reach.

Highlights include:

• Award-winning service and local support team.
• Enjoy spacious cabins featuring 18-30 Apex Suites on modern Dreamliners with 197 cm flatbeds, along with 8 luxurious Business Studios (formerly First Class).
• Modern, stylish lounges at Muscat International Airport for First and Business Class travellers.
• Generous Baggage Allowance: 30 kg in Economy and 50 kg in Business Class.
• Visa-Free Transit: Eligible travellers, including Australians, New Zealanders, and UK citizens, can enjoy a free 14-day visa upon arrival in Oman.

Plan Your Next Trip The Right Way

Through this strategic partnership, Oman Air and Qantas offer unparalleled rewards and access for frequent flyers across their expansive networks. This collaboration strengthens Oman Air’s position ahead of its 2025 entry into the Oneworld alliance, providing seamless international travel options. The airline remains committed to delivering a premium travel experience with exceptional comfort and connectivity for discerning travellers.

For expert guidance on arranging your next business trip or holiday with Oman Air or Qantas, talk to FirstClass.com.au. We’ll help you with exclusive access to premium fares so you can make the most of your journey. We do all of this, plus we can help you maximise loyalty program benefits and travel perks.

The post Oman Air Expands Reach With Powerful New Qantas Alliance appeared first on Points Advisor.

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has announced it will be leaving the Star Alliance network, effective from 1 September 2024. This decision will affect frequent flyers who have relied on SAS as part of their Star Alliance benefits, particularly members of loyalty programs like Flying Returns.

Key Changes for Flying Returns Members

For members of the Flying Returns program, several changes will take place:

• Earning and Redeeming Points: Flying Returns members can earn or redeem Reward Points on SAS-operated flights only until 31 August 2024. After this date, Flying Returns Points will no longer be eligible for earning or redemption on SAS or its partner flights.
• Tier Status Benefits: Post 31 August 2024, tier status benefits will not be recognised on SAS-operated flights, affecting members who have previously enjoyed perks such as priority boarding and lounge access.
• Claiming Missed Points: Members who have flown with SAS before the deadline of 31 August 2024 will still be able to claim any missed points, but they must do so by 31 October 2024.

New Opportunities with SAS’s Own Loyalty Program

While SAS is exiting Star Alliance, the airline will continue to offer its own loyalty program. From 1 September 2024, passengers flying with SAS or its partners will be able to earn rewards under the SAS Loyalty Programme, subject to the terms and conditions of this new program. Details on the program are yet to be fully disclosed, offering a fresh opportunity for frequent SAS travelers.

What to Do If You’ve Already Booked Flights

If you have already booked a flight with SAS using Flying Returns Reward Points before 31 August 2024, your booking will still be honoured, and you can proceed with your travel plans. However, any changes to flight dates after this period will not be accommodated. It is advisable to finalise your travel arrangements accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.

Need Assistance?

For any further questions or assistance, we recommend contacting the customer support teams of your loyalty programs or Scandinavian Airlines directly. They can provide detailed information and support during this transition period.

As SAS makes this significant shift, frequent flyers and loyalty program members should stay updated and plan their travels to maximise their benefits.

The post Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) to Leave Star Alliance: What It Means for Frequent Flyers appeared first on Points Advisor.

While Classic Plus reward seats typically necessitate more points than the existing Classic reward seats, they offer exceptional value within the frequent flyer program, boasting substantially broader availability. Moreover, Classic Plus reward seats are eligible for upgrades.

The points required to secure Classic Plus reward seats will fluctuate akin to regular airfares, meaning they will be lower during off-peak periods or when booked in advance, and higher during peak periods. Furthermore, during sales and promotions, Classic Plus reward seats may even fall below the points required for a Classic reward seat on the same route.

Effective immediately, Classic Plus reward seats can be reserved on Qantas international flights departing from Australia for travel commencing from 1 July 2024, exclusively through qantas.com. Subsequently, this offering will be extended across the remainder of the airline’s international and domestic network on Qantas-operated flights by year-end.

Upon full implementation across the international and domestic network by the end of calendar year 2024, Classic Plus will grant members access to 20 million new reward seats within the rolling 12-month booking window, ensuring a consistent level of availability moving forward.

Vanessa Hudson, CEO of the Qantas Group, emphasised that frequent flyers now have more avenues than ever to accumulate points, with the introduction of this new flight reward option enhancing the value proposition for those looking to leverage their expanding points balances for travel purposes.

Andrew Glance, CEO of Qantas Loyalty, highlighted the significance of the widespread availability of Classic Plus, offering members greater flexibility in flight options across all cabin classes and destinations within the Qantas network.

In addition to the introduction of Classic Plus, Qantas remains committed to offering over 5 million existing Classic reward seats across Qantas, Jetstar, and its 45 partner airlines, maintaining consistent points requirements since 2019.

The airline’s commitment to enhancing the frequent flyer program includes a $60 million investment this financial year, with recent initiatives such as the addition of 6,000 new premium Classic reward seats to Europe during peak travel periods.

Classic Plus and Classic Reward Seat Fact Sheet

For more information and schedule fare differences between Classic and Classic Plus you can click here to read the full article on the Qantas website.

The post Qantas Adds 20 Million More Rewards Seats with Classic Plus appeared first on Points Advisor.