(Almost) Everyone can use QF Business lounge from now till Feb 2020

Has anyone else seen this news today?

Minor correction: it's only for Australian-based International Business Lounges which also welcomes Qantas Club, Gold FF and single-entry pass holders.

I thought all Qantas lounges at international departure terminals were all business anyways, so probably a play for those who think it's a step from the Qantas Club. Qantas Club members were always eligible to use the Qantas International Business Class lounges anyways. I guess it comes down to how many flights are eligible for non tiered members who sign up and book in the offer period. Personally, I do not think it will make a noticeable difference.

Whilst frequent flyers may not be too pleased by this, I have to admit it's smart marketing by Qantas. The younger generations have grown up in an era of affordable air travel and LCCs. They book their flights based on price, rather than national pride, that I'd argue, has kept older flyers loyal to Qantas for a long time.

As this core, brand loyal, customer base dries up Qantas could struggle to attract the younger flyers (on international flights - the domestic market is rather captive). Being Australian based, they have a higher cost base than Asian and Mid East competitors, so could find themselves in trouble in the future. This is a smart attempt to create a loyal following from the next generation, by showing them what other services are available.

Very clever Qantas: The age demographic on International departures only - noting it doesn't allow on return journey eg: LAX, SIN etc. But will hopefully be enough of a carrot to dangle to entice them to book Qantas / Oneworld airfares on the same ticket.

From memory there's not a heap of spare space in the Syd lounge esp during morning peak hence opening up under the escalators. I'm sure they have done the numbers though and will roll out smaller chairs and more of them.

I fit into the Qantas target age group for this promo. From my perspective it’s a smart move to show what Qantas has to offer.

Still, I know quite a lot of young workmates. They never fly full service carriers, unless going on all expenses-paid work trips, and only go to holidays in Asia or NZ (because the prevalence of low cost carriers).

Isn't there a law against age discrimination?

Some might stop in and have a look but younger people I know find lounges stuffy and boring, no atmosphere and too many selfish ignorant people, so I don’t think this will impact lounges too much, it’s just not the place younger people want to be.

Some of these generalisations about young people are a bit much. I’m in my late twenties, have had Platinum status for years, and should reach Lifetime Gold within a year. I know several guys my age who also have some level of elite status with Qantas or Virgin Australia. Targeting those with 30+ years of business travel ahead of them seems much smarter than Virgin Australia giving retirees free access during the day.