Australia’s most popular airline, Qantas, offer some of the best loyalty packages in the air travel business. The airline is keen on meeting the client’s expectations and building long-standing relationships.
Like most airlines, Qantas offers redeemable frequent flyer miles. However, they provide unique benefits that incentivise clients and show commitment by rewarding their loyal clients. Qantas Frequent Flyer members gain points from their travels which can be redeemed for flight upgrades.
Several upgrade options are available for Qantas frequent fliers; you only need to know how to take advantage of them.
The domestic flight upgrades
Domestic flight upgrades are different from international upgrades. For example, domestic flight upgrades can be confirmed straight away if there is an available reward seat in the higher cabin. Moreover, Discount Economy fares can only be upgraded on domestic flights.
You can place a request for a business class upgrade on any domestic Qantas flight with a QF flight number. A ticket bought through a partner airline may not be eligible. Nonetheless, if you purchased your ticket via the Classic Flight Rewards option or Points Plus Pay, the upgrade option is only available on selected flights.
Furthermore, you can search for Classic Flight Rewards on a domestic flight to check if you can secure an upgrade. If a reward seat is available, your application for an upgrade will be confirmed as soon it’s placed. Therefore, early booking is the biggest secret to securing an upgrade.
International flight upgrades are more complicated than domestic flight upgrades. They have a waitlist with unique criteria for upgrade selection. Applications take time before approval, and several factors determine the probability to secure an upgrade; timing is not the only determinant. For example, elite flyers and members in Qantas club take priority. Moreover, highly-priced tickets stand a better chance of securing an upgrade.
The cost of an upgrade
Several factors influence the number of points needed to get an upgrade. These include the flight distance, travel zones and the existing fare class. For example, an upgrade from flexible economy to business class needs fewer points than a discount economy upgrade. Likewise, the higher the existing fare class, the fewer the points required for an upgrade.
Is it worth it?
Upgrades are the best way to use points. First, you get to enjoy a comfortable trip on an upgraded seat, and all you have to give up is a few points. Secondly, upgrades come with lounge access. Lastly, the upgrades are a great deal considering the amount of money you spend on the tickets.
Making the request
An application for upgrades on domestic flights is quite simple. It takes three simple steps.
1. Purchase your ticket and get the confirmation details. You can request an upgrade any time after the purchase confirmation to 24 hours before the flight.
Platinum and Gold members have the privilege of requesting upgrades up to 20 minutes before a flight’s departure time.
2. Enter your Qantas Frequent Flyer account and click “Upgrade” on the “Your Bookings” tab. If you select an available upgrade, it’ll be confirmed immediately.
3. If there is no upgrade, you can register for the next available one.
Requests for domestic upgrades are weighed based on your frequent flyer membership status. Therefore, platinum members take priority over gold, silver and bronze.
Domestic flight upgrades are easier to secure and are worth the point redemption. Don’t miss out! Place your request today.
