Classic question which I suppose arises from that dilemma where you haven't topped up your account with miles transferred in for redemption.

Looking to redeem MEL-JFK return and for the dates I want, I can get MEL-HKF-JFK (CX) and returning JFK-DOH-MEL (QR). According to mileage monkey this return routing is 26,814 miles and so should fall in the 10k+ column of the award table and be 175,000 AM J return, with taxes being slightly higher for using QR.

Is that correct or is there an additional points penalty for using QR instead of CX on the return? I can't see anything on the award charts to suggest that but would appreciate clarification.

Also, is there any pricing consequence for having a HKG stopover oneway and I assume only available by phone?