Following in the footsteps of rival Qantas, Virgin Australia will lower the redemption value of some reward flights, but there’s a sting in the tail for program members.
On Virgin, Delta, Virgin Atlantic, Virgin America and some Air New Zealand, economy fares for journeys over 7700kms will take fewer redemption points. However, premium economy and business class fares will increase.
Partner airlines, such as Singapore Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, South African Airlines, Air New Zealand long-haul flights and airberlin, will see a reduction in redemption points. A change in the grouping of Etihad Airways means that flights on this airline will now take more points to book.
However, it’s those who don’t travel frequently that may be greatest hit, with the program expiring points after two years of inactivity on an account, rather than the current three years.
Changes will take place from 1 June 2016, with the airline stating the cost of running the Velocity program and the relative cost of flights for the new rules.
If you’re concerned about losing your Velocity points, you may wish to consider switching to a credit-card reward program linked to the Velocity program, or fill up at BP fuel stations, where you can also collect Velocity points.
For more details, visit Velocitygrequentflyer.com