Here are my thoughts on the changes:
The QFF program in its current form is actually extremely generous. Status credit and point earn rates are huge. Basically, earning and retaining status on Qantas is much is easier compared to some other airlines. I’ve done quite an in depth comparison between the Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific and Qantas frequent flyer programs. I compared status (or tier credit, Q points etc etc) earn rates on certain sectors. For example, if I used a CX or QR FF number and flew other oneworld airlines in J, I would require almost double the amount of status credits, or Q points etc to move up the ladder (and therefore double the amount of flights) than I currently do with QF. In short, retaining my current Platinum level with Qantas is much easier, quicker and more economical than if I jumped ship to the CX or QR program and attempted to attain Emerald with them.
At the end of the day, status tiers are there to reward frequent flyers who actually fly regularly or spend large amounts of money on premium tickets, thus being “loyal”. Tier status should not be for those people who waste their time, money and points on “status runs” just to attain the next level so they can access the F lounge an expect a free upgrade on their twice yearly vacation to the US (for the purposes of doing status runs on AA….). The demise of MASA’s is sad but not surprising and in the long run, I think it’s best if top tier levels like Sapphire and Emerald are reserved for those who actually earn it, not “buy” it. Otherwise what is the point in having these top tier levels to begin with if they are easy to attain, thus making them less exclusive? Status privileges such as F lounge access, upgrades, priority seating should be reserved for those who actually deserve and earn the status, and fly regularly. Sorry, I know I have just severely pissed off more than half this forum.
So, I think considering the difficulties QF are currently facing, these changes make absolute sense. If that means I lose my Emerald status and have to downgrade to Sapphire because I no longer earn as many SC’s etc, then so be it. If I don’t meet the criteria to retain Emerald, then I should not be entitled to it. Those who travel consistently and regularly should be rewarded with privileges.
At the end of the day, entire frequent flyer program is a privilege, not a right. It’s free. When you book a ticket with Qantas, all you are really entitled to is a seat on the flight you paid for. Anything else such as free points which can be used to purchase more flights, products or services or SC’s rewarded to you are a essentially a free gift.
Once again, compare the Qantas Frequent flyer Program to other airlines and even with these changes, it’s still quite decent. I remember in around 2004 when United Airlines changed their Mileage Plus Program meaning that the minimum points earned for a flight was only 500 not 1000 (I think it’s even less now…?). Here we are 10 years later and Qantas have only just changed this. Maybe it’s not so bad after all!
As for all those banging on about going to VA – I hope that works out for you. VA suck. They tried to emulate and copy the QFF program and have failed. They will always be number 2.
By the way, I don’t work for Qantas and am not affiliated with them in any way. I’m just not going to get my knickers in a knot over changes (to a FREE program) that make absolute financial sense for a Qantas.
