VA Gold lounge access - EY metal, KLM ticket?

[strait_hopper]

Hey all, a quick question for you regarding international lounge access for a VA Gold member: can a VA Gold member get access to EY lounges if flying on EY metal with a KLM ticket?

Background:
I'm planning a trip to Europe at end 2017: First leg MEL-EDI, second leg AMS-MEL. The most logical route is via AUH on Etihad (EY) metal.

At present, tickets purchased with KLM (codeshare on EY metal all the way) are significantly (25 percent) cheaper than tickets either directly with EY or with VA.

The VA website indicates that lounge access is allowed when a flight is "operated" by Etihad. Does this mean that the ticket can be issued by any airline? Or does it have to be issued by EY or VA?

Thanks!

 

[Mr Pumblechook]

If you want to use your VA lounge privileges, you need a VA- or a partner-issued ticket for a VA- or partner- operated flight.

Have you considered the KLM ticket and a Priority Pass membership? The cheapest package is US$89 to join (via pointhacks) plus US$27 per visit - it might still save you money.

 

[strait_hopper]

Thanks Mr Pumble, that's what I expected, but just thought I'd check!

Good tip on the Priority Pass, although I'm not sure it will get me access in all airports. Plus, if I'm not on a VA partner, I miss out on other perks like priority check in etc.