Qantas Enhances Frequent Flyer Program

The Qantas Frequent Flyer program is to undergo a major round of enhancements with an aim of offering more value to its 7.8 million members.

Qantas Chief Executive Officer Alan Joyce said, "We recognise we operate in a very competitive environment which is why we are determined to ensure our Frequent Flyer program is the most dynamic, flexible, user-friendly and rewarding program in the business. We asked our members what they value and they said a huge choice of partners to earn and use points with and the ability to earn more points. Today, we are announcing plans to deliver on both those desires and we will continue to do just that going forward."

Qantas also plans to create a new consumer loyalty alliance with Australian telco giant Optus, which will see Optus join the program later this year. The new deal will allow members the opportunity to earn points across Optus consumer and small business products and services.

Optus Chief Executive Paul O'Sullivan said, "Once in place, Optus will be the only telecommunications provider to reward consumer and small and medium business customers with the ability to earn Qantas Frequent Flyer points for its products and services. As part of the planned alliance, Qantas will also be adding a number of Optus products and services as redemption options using Qantas Frequent Flyer points."

The Qantas Frequent Flyer program is introducing a host of fresh benefits which include:

- More options to earn points on an expanded range of Jetstar flights

- Expanding the program to enable members more choice on Jetstar flights, including more options to select to earn points and Status credits on all Jetstar fares.

- Jetstar is also introducing a new fare structure which will see Frequent Flyer members able to earn both points and Status credits in Economy and Business on any fare purchase with a "Plus or Max Bundle". The new Bundles can be included on top of any fare and will provide customers with flexibility and extras depending on their needs. Among the added benefits are making free changes to their flight, seat selection or earning Qantas Frequent Flyer points and Status credits.

- Adjusting earn rates to deliver increased value and make it easier to accumulate points

The Qantas Frequent Flyer program has also increased the Cabin bonus to further reward customers travelling in premium cabins on Qantas flights:

- Premium Economy Cabin bonus will increase from 10% to 25%
- Business Cabin bonus will increase from 25% to 50%
- First Cabin bonus will increase from 50% to 100%

To make it even easier to earn points, Qantas Frequent Flyer has also increased Gold and Silver Status bonus points to give members even more status when they fly with Qantas, with a QF code on their ticket. The Gold Status bonus will increase from 50% to 75% and the Silver Status bonus will increase from 25% to 50%.

- Improving the upgrade experience using points via a number of initiatives including offering SMS confirmation of upgrade requests

Currently members can make a request for an upgrade using points but potentially don't have it confirmed until they present at the airport for check-in on the day of travel. From fourth quarter 2011, customers will be able to receive an SMS notification of confirmation prior to their travel.

- "Platinum One" - Creating a new level of VIP recognition for Qantas' most frequent flyers

From fourth quarter 2011, those Platinum members who earn more than triple the usual Status credits retain level for Platinum tier status will have access to even more benefits and exclusive services, including a dedicated team to look after their travel needs every step of the way.

See recent travel news from: Travel News Asia, Qantas