Comparing Velocity Frequent Flyer VS Qantas
When it comes to airline loyalty programs in Australia, the Qantas Frequent Flyer and Velocity Frequent Flyer programs undoubtedly stand out. But how do these two giants compare? Let’s break down each airlines partner programs, reward seat availability, conversion rates, and earning opportunities.
Partner Airlines
Qantas Frequent Flyer: Qantas is part of the Oneworld alliance, granting members access to a global network of 13 major airlines, such as British Airways, American Airlines, and Cathay Pacific. This expansive network covers over 1,000 destinations worldwide.
Velocity Frequent Flyer: Velocity, while not part of a major global alliance, has forged strategic partnerships with airlines like Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Delta, providing flexibility for members traveling to various international destinations.
Reward Seat Availability
Qantas Frequent Flyer: Qantas often has plenty of reward seats on domestic routes, however have been criticised recently of their lack of international reward availability. From time to time, they release additional reward seats but in general international availability is not amazing. When it comes to international routes, Qantas generally offers more reward seats due to its vast array of partner airlines and more daily flights, this advantage is somewhat counteracted as they have a larger pool of frequent flyer members vying for those same seats – a classic catch-22 scenario.
Velocity Frequent Flyer: Velocity provides a notable number of reward seats too. However, like Qantas, they have limited seats available for international routes. Although they might not have the sheer volume of seats Qantas offers, they also have fewer members chasing those seats. Singapore Airlines is a great partner to have access to when chasing seats to/from Europe and many users have had success finding flights with this rewards program.
Conversion Rates
Qantas Frequent Flyer: Flying to/from the USA in business class using Qantas points (on a classic rewards rate) will roughly cost around 110K points + taxes. Earning those points, credit cards generally offer around 1 point per $1 spend. Of course there are sign up bonuses which can fast track this.
Velocity Frequent Flyer: Flying to/from the USA in Business Class using Velocity points (on a rewards rate) will also roughly cost around 100K points + taxes. The redemption value is fairly similar but slightly cheaper (which reflects the cost of the ticket). Earning those 100K points is fairly similar too with most credit cards offering around 1 point per $1 spend.
Ways to Earn
Qantas Frequent Flyer: Apart from flying, Qantas Points can be earned through a diverse range of partners, spanning credit cards, hotels, car rentals, and even wine through Qantas Wine. The Qantas Shopping Portal is another avenue, where members accumulate points shopping at popular online retailers. Woolworths Everyday Rewards can be converted to Qantas points! Earning points in the Qantas Frequent Flyer program is generally easier given the huge range of ways to earn points.
Velocity Frequent Flyer: Velocity also offers a plethora of ways to accrue points. Partner credit cards, hotels, and car rentals are par for the course. Unique partnerships allow members to earn points at BP petrol stations, by booking rides with Ola, and importantly, by converting Coles Flybuys to Velocity points.
Conclusion: Velocity Frequent Flyer VS Qantas
Both Qantas Frequent Flyer and Velocity Frequent Flyer have their merits and distinctive offerings. The right program hinges on individual travel patterns, spending habits, and preferences. When choosing, consider your frequent routes, preferred partners, and the perks that resonate most. Both programs promise valuable opportunities to earn and redeem, ensuring loyalty is always rewarded.
To learn more about the Velocity Frequent Flyer Program head to their website here
To learn more about the Qantas Frequent Flyer Program head to their website here
Discover the best Qantas reward availability for November here
