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mpchic
I expect that 'free seats' never meant totally without any cash payment
(if it was ever the case, I'm sure someone will correct me)
Nowadays, on all redemptions I know of, the various government taxes must be paid (these are things like arrival and departure taxes; not taxes such as GST/VAT/Sales Tax). These usually do not amount to a significant cost (for example on a SYD-LAX return - around $175)
What Qantas charges in addition are its fuel surcharges (and on a SYD-LAX return these come to $710)
Personally, I use Qantas points for redemptions:
- domestic (i.e. in Australia) - low fuel surcharges ($20 on a SYD-PER return)
- partner airlines that do not charge fuel surcharges (AA domestic in the USA; Emirates (I recently redeemed Dubai-PER 1-way economy for 36,000 points + $42 in taxes)
Originally Posted by
mpchic
I am not sure where to put my question so I am coming into the QFF thread. Am I the only person questioning Qantas fees for "free seats" purchased with points. Currently looking at USA next year and find that there is a fee of $822. I can buy a ticket for about $1200-$1300 on budget sites so what gives. Last year, 2 flights on Jetstar Sydney to Phuket, total fees over $400. Rang Jetstar in disbelief thinking that somehow the website had given me 1 free set and charged me for 1. No, you guessed it - because our tickets had a QF number we had been charged full Qantas fees despite the fact that Qantas DOES NOT fly to Phuket?????? Come on Qantas, please explain your fees and charges