Yup, unfortunately the only way to beat SQ's YQ is to do an ex-MNL or ex-GRU run, as Brazil and the Philippines do not charge YQ on international departures. Unfortunately the GRU option is going to die out soon. SFO-HKG has minimal YQ too. Other data points: BOM-SIN-TYO has half the YQ of BOM-S...

True. I'd rather use United miles out of Australia to Asia though. Route through BKK and get a massage, then use SQ miles for other purposes.

A killer option on SQ Suites would be BOM/DEL-SIN-PVG/PEK at 61625 miles oneway. 2 Suites flights and a visit to the Private Room, and still costs less miles than MEL/SYD/AKL-SIN. Add in US$100 and you get a stopover in SIN too.

Earn miles with AAdvantage instead... You spend less in most cases. And zero fuel surcharges whatsoever when redeeming award tickets.

Yeah man. Booked it for the sake of the 789. Got a lame duck tweet from Etihad when I asked... "Hi Joel, the aircraft type may be changed due to operational reason. Thanks."