Until 11 January 2021, you can get a 30% discount when redeeming Velocity Frequent Flyer points for Virgin Australia flights in Business class. You can also now get a 30% discount when using Velocity points to upgrade to Business class on Virgin Australia flights.
The 30% discount applies to the points required (but not taxes & carrier charges) on any Virgin Australia domestic flight where Velocity Business Reward seats are currently available. This offer is now valid for travel until 31 January 2021 (after being extended multiple times).
The Reward Seat discount will be automatically applied when you book an eligible Business Reward Seat on the Virgin Australia website.
With the 30% discount on Business Reward Seats, here’s the number of Velocity points you’ll need for a domestic Virgin Australia flight (excluding taxes & carrier charges) when you book by 11 January 2021:
| Distance flown | Economy Class (no discount) |
Business Class (with 30% discount) |
| 0-600 miles | 7,800 points | 10,800 points |
| 601-1,200 miles | 11,800 points | 16,400 points |
| 1,201-2,400 miles | 17,800 points | 24,800 points |
The UpgradeMe discount will similarly be applied automatically if you upgrade from Economy class fare to Business on an eligible flight. Here’s the number of points you’ll need to upgrade with the 30% discount available until 11 January 2021:
| Flight distance | Upgrade from Getaway or Elevate | Upgrade from Freedom fare |
| 0-600 miles | 7,000 points | 3,400 points |
| 601-1,200 miles | 12,200 points | 5,100 points |
| 1,201-2,400 miles | 21,000 points | 6,900 points |
UpgradeMe Points upgrades on Virgin Australia flights can be confirmed instantly if there is a Business Reward seat available on your flight.
Discount reflects reduced Business class service
The discount on the number of Velocity points required for Business Reward Seats and upgrades is fair as passengers are not currently receiving the full Business Class experience. Most of Virgin Australia’s lounges remain closed, and on-board catering in Business class has been reduced to a snack box and limited drinks. There are currently no meals available on Virgin Australia flights.
At this point, you’re really just paying for the larger seat and a snack when booking Business class on Virgin Australia flights. But you do at least still get priority check-in, priority boarding and an additional baggage allowance. If you also want lounge access and a meal on board, you’ll have to fly Qantas!
The minimal Business class service is likely to remain until Virgin relaunches its Business class product in early 2021… when this offer expires.
Join the discussion on the Australian Frequent Flyer forum: 30% off Velocity Business Reward seats & upgrades until 11/01/21
