Hi aarono,

<<I was also looking for the old oneworld redemption table and couldn't even get that, although I did notice that a one world RTW redemption now allows up to 10 stops with 80,000km cap? Would it not be better for me to book a RTW redemption now? - If i can find out how many points I need! ;-)10 stops opposed to 5? 80,000km opposed to 50,000km?>>

I am not sure! I guess it depends on itinerary. I don't know - but I would guess the rates will fall slightly after the 15th September (inline with the fall in other long haul prices) - so if you are going for premium cabins and more than 5 stops I would guess before the 15th September - although I am only guessing.

<<I am still not sure if I am entirely taken by the changes. Seems to be a lot of pluses as well as minuses. Maybe it will equal out....>>

The changes to point earning (inc miles to kms, minimum earn and tier bonuses) and reward costs are supposed to be reasonably neutral – although I have been posting the positives when others post the negatives - the net impact should be small (could go either way depending on behavioural changes). Although there will be winners and losers with type of change… as always (this is the reason for the long lead time in bringing in the changes)

Although the other changes are designed to make the program more attractive and competitive:
1. Removal of points expiry
2. International upgrades
3. Lifetime recognition
4. Faster / easy to achieve status levels (inc lower retain levels)
5. Electronic upgrade certificate system (gets rid of the paper ones + makes them available to all members + allows to combine them for use on long-haul flights)
6. New recognition benefits (some still have not been announced – watch this space) – includes comp fold membership for partner, comp Qantas club entry pass, guaranteed Y seat, etc, etc
7. Removal of the account service fee (great for members that are dominant for periods of time)

My summary of FF programs worldwide is that they either offer great awards (upgrades, etc - US carriers) or they offer great recognition benefits (lounges with free alcohol, etc – European and other Asian carriers). I have a hard time thinking of another carrier that has combined the best of both worlds.

Hi Peter,

<<If you fly on a mystery flight how many miles do you accrue? >>

Mystery to me

Cheers… Bruce

[This message has been edited by bruceb (edited 03-16-2001).]