Hi All,
Some of my circumtances have changed recently, which means I will be flying between the ME and Australia on a regular basis (at least 5 round trips per year in J/F).

Not that it matters, but I have been attached to Skywards for the simple fact it pays off really well (2 redemptions, plus countless of upgrades along the way).

EK, however, recently pumped up its prices ex- several points in the ME.
EY and MH, both secondary options, suddenly became more interesting and their fares beat EK's by a good 10-20% per round trip fare.

The question here is:
Would it be more logical to stick with the tried and known EK product (hit and miss), paying a premium to clock up miles with them?
Or
Try and get the cheapest possible fares on EY/MH (a tricky business really, because the cheaper fare buckets are often zeroed out, so it means I will have to be extra flexible), saving hereby $$?

Your 2 cents will be appreciated

I have noticed too the sharp increase on EK F and J class fares ex-middle east and specially Dubai. However, I suggest that you stick to them because of their strong network and excellent products ex-dubai. I am sure in the short run EY and MH will follow suit and increase their fares but not as much as EK. It is a rule that home carrier always charge more than transfer carriers. An example is LH which charge the highest fares ex-Germany and still doing great due to the prducts offerings.