Qantas tweaks loyalty bonus for fast-track Gold, Platinum status

Qantas Frequent Flyer members can now opt for bonus status credits in lieu of extra frequent flyer points as part of the Roo’s ‘loyalty bonus’, making it easier to climb the status ladder or to retain your existing Qantas frequent flyer tier.

For every 500 status credits earned on Qantas and Jetstar flight numbers in a single membership year, travellers can now choose between the existing bonus of 8,000 Qantas Points or an extra 50 status credits instead.

It’s a welcome boost for business travellers hoping to keep their existing Qantas Gold card – requiring 600 status credits in a membership year – as this can now be achieved by earning just 550 status credits in the air, with the loyalty bonus gifting you the remaining 50.

That loyalty bonus also helps Platinum cardholders in their trek for 1,200 status credits each year, who can now achieve that by earning a lower 1,100 status credits from actual flying, and boosting that to an even 1,200 by taking two rounds of 50 bonus credits that same year.

However, existing Platinum One members and those aspiring to reach Qantas’ top-tier should note that extra status credits earned via the loyalty bonus aren’t counted towards attaining or retaining Platinum One status – in which case, taking the bonus points may prove a more fruitful option.

Qantas’ loyalty bonus remains limited to the first 2,000 status credits earned by a member in a single membership year (excluding these new status boosters) on Qantas and Jetstar flight numbers.

The move comes just two weeks after rival Virgin Australia unveiled a new tie-up with the Flybuys program, enabling Velocity Frequent Flyer members to earn extra status credits by shopping at Coles, Liquorland and First Choice Liquor on the ground.

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Chris Chamberlin

Chris Chamberlin is the Associate Editor of Executive Traveller and lives by the motto that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, a great latte, a theatre ticket and a glass of wine!