A report in the Sunday Herald Sun says that restrictions on redeeming frequent flyer points could be lifted with sweeping changes to the Qantas loyalty program expected to be announced this week.
The new arrangement would allow travellers to use points towards any scheduled Qantas flight, similar to a system now operated by other airlines.
Qantas is due to announce details of a major restructure after its next board meeting on Wednesday, including the possible sell-off of its freight, fleet and frequent flyer divisions.
The move is aimed at reducing costs and boosting profits.
However, Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation chairman Peter Harbison said it could also be good for consumers, saying, “Essentially any seat on Qantas would be available for frequent flyers.”
“I don’t see any negatives for consumers other than the usual, which it that the value of frequent flyer points is diluted constantly,” he said.
Frequent flyers would probably also find themselves directly funding a greater part of the ticket, given the value of their existing points was less likely to cover the cost of more popular flights.
Report by The Mole
