A few weeks ago I was looking at using QR Avios for MEL-ZQN on VA J.
44,000 return (vs 71,000 VFF) and the taxes were lower as well: something like $200 vs $250 via Velocity. Sounds good!
After lining up some dates I came back to look at the redemption again and got a shock... the QR redemption now wants 44,000 avios and $732 (!)
I followed through the booking to get to the fare breakdown and found this for each leg:
Redemption Fee (non-refundable)
$247.40
Looks like maybe the system hadn't properly been including these for some partner bookings in the past, but they are now, and it's eye-watering.
A good FYI for folks who may look to transfer AMEX MR: for VA redemptions within Australia or trans-tasman you'd be better going to KF or just VFF.
44,000 return (vs 71,000 VFF) and the taxes were lower as well: something like $200 vs $250 via Velocity. Sounds good!
After lining up some dates I came back to look at the redemption again and got a shock... the QR redemption now wants 44,000 avios and $732 (!)
I followed through the booking to get to the fare breakdown and found this for each leg:
Redemption Fee (non-refundable)
$247.40
Looks like maybe the system hadn't properly been including these for some partner bookings in the past, but they are now, and it's eye-watering.
A good FYI for folks who may look to transfer AMEX MR: for VA redemptions within Australia or trans-tasman you'd be better going to KF or just VFF.
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