Qantas has announced new changes to its Qantas Frequent Flyer scheme, and says that further changes are in the pipeline.
Among the changes announced on May 17 is a new ‘Platinum One’ upper membership tier, for members who earn more than triple the required number of status credits in a year for the Platinum frequent flyer level. To be introduced from the fourth quarter of 2011, Platinum One frequent flyers “will have access to even more benefits and exclusive services, including a dedicated team to look after your travel needs every step of the way”, the airline says.
Another initiative to be introduced in the fourth quarter is SMS confirmation of upgrade requests using frequent flyer points, while with immediate effect the cabin bonus for premium cabin passengers will increase (the premium economy cabin bonus will increase from 10% to 25%; business 25% to 50%; and first class from 50% to 100%).
And with Jetstar’s newly announced ‘Plus’ and ‘Max’ add-on fare bundles, Qantas frequent flyers can more now easily earn points on Jetstar services.
Another enhancement for the Qantas scheme announced today is the news that telco Optus would become a Qantas Frequent Flyer partner from later in the year.
“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,” Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said.
The moves seem a pre-emptive counter to Virgin Australia CEO John Borghetti’s plans to reveal an all new frequent flyer program later this year.
