Qantas & Emirates in an Unhappy Marriage?

The extensive alliance between Qantas and Emirates has failed to deliver on its promises of improved service and choice for flyers, according to one member. Successive reductions in benefits for Qantas customers flying Emirates are just part of a long list of complaints.

Our members particularly lament the loss of many Qantas international flights. Flights to Europe from Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide were taken over by Emirates when the alliance began. But Emirates does not allow Qantas flyers to upgrade using their points; nor does it offer Premium Economy. Some members also miss the Singapore stopover en-route to Europe, which was replaced with Dubai.

Numerous members also feel that the initial benefits of the alliance, now into its fourth year, have been gradually whittled away over recent years. Qantas has already abolished lounge access for Qantas Club members flying on an Emirates flight number. Just a few weeks ago, Qantas also removed the ability to earn points or status credits on some Emirates fares.

However, many members have raced to Qantas’ defence, claiming to have benefited greatly from the alliance. These members believe that the many advantages far outweigh the disadvantages. In particular, our members have benefited from one-stop flights to many European & African destinations, and access to reward flights on Emirates’ vast global network. Our members also appreciate the ability to earn and redeem Qantas points on Emirates’ A380 flights to New Zealand.

Regulatory approval for the Qantas/Emirates alliance will expire in less than two years. While some members speculate that approval will be renewed without question, others believe Qantas will need to work hard to prove that flyers are actually benefitting.

Share your thoughts HERE.

The editor of Australian Frequent Flyer, Matt's passion for travel has taken him to over 90 countries… with the help of frequent flyer points, of course!
Matt's favourite destinations (so far) are Germany, Brazil & Kazakhstan. His interests include aviation, economics & foreign languages, and he has a soft spot for good food and red wine.

You can connect with Matt by posting on the Australian Frequent Flyer community forum and tagging @AFF Editor.
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