Airpasses
Aug 19, 1999 | 3:49 am
#1
Original Poster
Original Member
Join Date: May 1998
Location: Melbourne Australia
Posts: 1,394
Airpasses
This information was a reply to a query on Australian airpasses elsewhere. Rudi has asked me to post this here as well for those that are interested.
http://www.ansett.co.nz/international/product_info.html
http://www.oztravel.co.uk/pass/QF_Boomerang_Pass.html
http://www.oztravel.co.uk/pass/AN_Gday_Pass.html
http://www.plaza.ch/touchdown/page003ansettgday.htm
http://home.wxs.nl/~grijns/airtravel/airpass.html
http://www.windsport.com/rththere.html
http://www.magna.com.au/~hideaway/explorer.htm
Thank you for flying the Vegemite skies
cheers Peter
http://www.ansett.co.nz/international/product_info.html
http://www.oztravel.co.uk/pass/QF_Boomerang_Pass.html
http://www.oztravel.co.uk/pass/AN_Gday_Pass.html
http://www.plaza.ch/touchdown/page003ansettgday.htm
http://home.wxs.nl/~grijns/airtravel/airpass.html
http://www.windsport.com/rththere.html
http://www.magna.com.au/~hideaway/explorer.htm
Thank you for flying the Vegemite skies
cheers Peter
Aug 20, 1999 | 2:49 pm
#4
Join Date: Feb 1999
Location: T82
Programs: AA Gold, HH Gold
Posts: 2,845
There is a very informative page on AOL that gives info on the various air passes throughout the world. Since some of you can't access this I can't list the link, so here it is in its entirety. Sorry for all the space this will take up, but it gives you info that you might have to search high and low for otherwise.
The air pass info is listed geographically as follows: Asia Air Passes, Australia, Baltic States, Caribbean, Central America, Europe, North America, South America and South Pacific.
ASIA AIR PASSES
Cathay Pacific Air Passes (800-CATHAY7)
Cathay Pacific is offering an All Asia Pass, which allows travelers to visit up to 15 Asian cities within 30 days for just $999. The price drops to $899 for seniors over 55 and full-time students 26 and under with proof of discount eligibility. Young adults 19 and under can also travel for $899.
Cities included in the basic All Asia Pass are: Bangkok, Cebu, Denpasar (Bali), ***uoka, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Nagoya, Osaka, Penang, Seoul, Singapore, Surabaya, Taipei, Tokyo and Hong Kong.
The pass is valid for travel departing the United States between Jan. 15, 1999 and May 7, 1999, inclusive and between Aug. 22, 1999 and Nov. 16, 1999, inclusive. U.S. departures between May 8, 1999 and Aug. 21, 1999, inclusive, are just an additional $200 -- a 50 percent discount from last year's All Asia Pass summer surcharge.
Cathay Pacific allows you to expand and/or customize the All Asia Pass. You can add a total of 18 additional cities in Australia, China, India, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam for $200 to $500 each.
Discover Thailand Air Pass with Thai Airways (800-426-5204)
The Thailand pass costs $179 for four flight coupons. Additional flights may be purchased for $49 each up to a maximum of eight. Must be issued in conjunction with a round-trip international ticket to Thailand on any airline. If you must take a connecting flight through Bangkok it will count as two flight segments. Pass is valid for 60 days. The change fee is $25.00.
Discover India Pass on Indian Airlines
The Discover India Pass costs $750 and is good for 21 days, or $500 for 14 days. You are allowed unlimited flights as long as you don't backtrack. Indian Airlines doesn't have an office in the U.S., but you can contact Air India at 800-223-2250 for more information on the pass and you can purchase the pass from your travel agent.
AUSTRALIA AIR PASSES
Boomerang Pass on Qantas (800-227-4500)
Good for domestic travel within Australia and New Zealand. Does not permit international flights between Australia and New Zealand. You can purchase a minimum of two tickets, and a maximum of 10. All of the flights will, regardless of the number you buy, will cost either $155 - $185 or $195 - $235, depending on the zone in which you are flying. The pass is valid as long as your international ticket to/from Australia is valid. It is fully changeable and refundable if not used at all. Also, any additional sectors purchased over the minimum are fully refundable if not used. See also Qantas' Visit South Pacific pass if you want to travel within and between Australia, Fiji and New Zealand.
Visit Australia Air Pass on Ansett Australia (800-366-1300)
Ansett Australia has a Visit Australia Air Pass which is good for domestic travel within Australia and New Zealand. It is almost identical in price and destinations to Qantas' Boomerang Pass.
Air New Zealand Explorer Pass (800-262-1234)
The Air New Zealand Explorer Pass is a flexible pass which includes a minimum of three flights and a maximum of eight flights. The basic pass includes three flights and costs NZ$495 (approx. USD$275). Additional flights cost approximately NZ$162 (approx. USD$92) each. The pass is valid for one year. Routing must be confirmed ahead of time, but can be changed for a fee of NZ$25 (approx. USD$14) Dates can remain open and may be changed without penalty.
BALTIC STATES AIR PASS
SAS Visit Baltic Pass (800-221-2350)
You must purchase a minimum of two tickets, which will cost $230, and a maximum of four, for $460. A surcharge of $60 applies to some flights. Valid between Copenhagen, Helsinki, Oslo, Stockholm, Kalingrad, Kiev, Moscow, Riga, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Turku, Vilnius. Coupons are valid for three months. Must be purchased in conjunction with a round-trip airfare from North America on SAS.
CARIBBEAN AIR PASSES
BWIA Caribbean Air Pass (800-538-2942)
BWIA has a pass which allows you to travel to Antigua, Barbados, Caracas, Grenada, Jamaica, Kingston, Georgetown, St. Lucia, St. Martin and Trinidad during a one-month period for $449. No backtracking is permitted, however, you may fly to the same airport twice for connecting flights. You must plan your itineray at the time of purchase; changes will cost you $20.
Super Caribbean Explorer on LIAT (268-462-0700)
The Caribbean Explorer allows you three flights to any of 26 destinations in the Caribbean where LIAT flies during a 21-day period for $262. No changes are permitted. LIAT also offers a Super Caribbean Explorer pass which includes unlimited stops in the Caribbean in one direction during a one-month period for $475. Changes are permitted after ticketing on the Super Explorer pass for a $25 service fee. These passes are non-refundable. Travelers cannot visit the same island twice except for making a connecting flight.
CENTRAL AMERICA PASS
Visit Central America (Aviateca, Copa, Lacsa, Nica, Taca)
Aviateca (800-327-9832)
The price of this ticket includes airfare to/from any gateway city in the U.S. to Central America, then at least one flight within Central America or to South America. Ticket prices start at $539, not including taxes, and vary depending on departure city and destinations.
EUROPE AIR PASSES
Discover Europe with British Midlands Air Pass (800-788-0555)
British Midland Airlines which flies from London to points throughout Great Britain and Europe has a very flexible air pass program. Buy as many flights as you want for only $109 each way for flights 90 minutes or less, and $149 for flights over 90 minutes. You will need to purchase the pass before you leave and it is valid for one year. It is refundable if unused, for a $50 service fee. You must be a U.S. resident to purchase this pass and you must buy it from a travel agent. There is a $50 change fee if itinerary changes once ticketed. What's nice about this pass is there's no minimum number of flights to purchase and often you can combine it with a cheap fare to London to fly to a more expensive destination in Europe for less than it would have cost you to fly to that destination directly from the U.S. Only the first flight requires a reservation at the time of purchase.
Europe Air Pass on British Airways (800-247-9297)
The Europe Air Pass is good for travel on British Airways, TAT, Deutsche BA, and Gibraltar Air in Europe, and Israel. The pass is valid for a maximum of 90 days and minimum of seven. You must buy 3-12 flight coupons. Pricing per flight varies from $92-$185 depending on which of the four regional zones you wish to travel in. Many intra-Europe destinations will require two coupons and backtracking through a major hub such as London, but you will still save considerable money, particularly to some Eastern European destinations and to Israel. Itineraries need to be planned at least 7 days prior to international departure. Routing changes are not permitted, however, dates and flights may be changed for a $40 penalty providing the change is made prior to the flight date. This pass is available only to U.S. residents, and must be purchased in conjunction with a transatlantic flight to London, Birmingham, Manchester, or Glascow on any airline using any published fare. Discounted rates are available for children and infants.
Discover Europe with Lufthansa
Available for most European destinations, a minimum of 3 coupons cost $140 each in peak travel times; $125 during off-peak times. There is a maximum of nine coupons. Your travel must begin and end in Germany. Must be purchased in conjunction with a round-trip, international flight originating in North America.
Euroflyer Pass with Air France (800-237-2747)
If you buy a round-trip ticket from the U.S. to Paris on Air France or to Brussels on Sabena or to Prague on CSA-Czechoslovak Airlines, you can then purchase coupons for air travel within Europe on any of these airlines plus Air Inter for $120 each. Each coupon entitles you to a one-way flight in Europe to over 100 European cities. You must purchase a minimum of three coupons and a maximum of nine coupons and use the coupons within two months after the first one. The coupons may be purchased in conjunction with any published fare, which means consolidator tickets are probably out. You must purchase the pass in the U.S.
Passport to Europe on Northwest and KLM (800-374-7747)
Buy a ticket to Europe on Northwest or KLM and you can buy a Passport to Europe ticket including three flights within Europe for only $300 during LOW season. Price increases to $390 during PEAK season (6/1 - 8/31 and 12/15 - 12/23). An additional category, called SHOULDER season will run you $330. Additional flights can be purchased as well, up to 12. After the first three, prices decrease -- the fourth and fifth flights will cost $80; and the sixth and seventh $70. Only drawback to this ticket is that all KLM flights go through Amsterdam which will require two coupons for most intra-Europe flights. Pass is valid for as long as your international ticket. Good also for travel on Air UK, Trans Avia, and EuroWings.
SAS Visit Europe Pass (800-221-2350)
There is no minimum number of tickets to purchase. One will cost $180; two will cost $280; three will cost $375. The maximum number of flights is eight, for $1000. Valid between Scandinavia and all European destinations on SAS and within UK and between UK and Europe on British Midland. Must be purchased in conjunction with a round-trip airfare from North America on SAS. You can change your travel dates after purchase at no charge; route changes will cost $50. Pass is valid for three months.
SAS Visit Scandinavia Pass (800-221-2350)
The Visit Scandinavia Pass costs $90 per flight up to a maximum of six flight coupons. There is a $60 surcharge for travel from Oslo to Alta, Kirkenes, Longyearbyen or Tromso. Must be purchased in conjunction with a round-trip airfare from North America on British Midland, SAS or Varig. Fly between Denmark, Norway and Sweden; between Finland and Sweden; and within Norway and Sweden. Pass is valid for three months.
EurAir Pass (888/387-2479)
U.S. travelers to Europe can fly on 12 different airlines to more than 60 cities within Europe at the flat rate of $90 per flight plus airport taxes with a EurAir Pass. The EurAir Pass, available only to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, is sold in packets of three or more flight coupons. Each $90 coupon is valid for a non-stop flight between any two cities within the system. Reservations can be made prior to leaving the U.S., or after travelers arrive in Europe. EurAir is pretty flexibility in that you can travel with pre-arranged schedules or to invent your itinerary on the go.
Iberia EuroPass (800-772-4642)
Purchase a minimum of one round-trip ticket from Madrid to another European destination for $250, with three exceptions: Moscow; Tel Aviv; and Cairo. Those cities will cost $310. There is no maximum number of flights. Ticket must be purchased in conjunction with a transatlantic flight on Iberia, from either Miami or New York.
Visit Spain Airpass (800-772-4642)
The Visit Spain Airpass includes four flight coupons for travel anywhere in Spain on Aviaco or Iberia and costs $240 or $299, depending on the time of year. The maximum number of coupons you may purchase is eight. There's a $50 surcharge per pass to include travel to the Canary Islands. Pass is valid for 60 days and must be purchased in conjunction with a transatlantic ticket. Changes in destinations will cost you $50.
Austrian Airlines (800-843-0002)
Buy a ticket to Austria or Switzerland from the U.S. on Austrian Airlines and you can buy a minimum of three and a maximum of eight European flights on Austrian Airlines, Sabena, SwissAir, Tyrolean or Crossair for $130 each. If you use any other airline, the cost is $150 per ticket. Travel between Austrian cities are $80 each. Dates may be changed without penalty. Routing changes incur a $50 penalty. No changes permitted on the first flight. Coupons are valid for a maximum of two months.
Malev Hungarian Airlines (800-223-6884)
Buy a transatlantic ticket to Budapest on Malev, the Hungarian airline, and you can buy three flight coupons for flights within Europe on Malev for $330, additional coupons (up to a maximum of 9) may be purchased for $90 each. Price increases to $420 for flights during April through October (additional coupons are $110). All of Malev's flights go through Budapest and connecting flights will require two coupons.
Visit Norway Pass with Braathens Safe
Each coupon costs $85 (within North Norway or South Norway) or $140 between North and South Norway. May be purchased in conjunction with a round-trip, international airfare purchased from any carrier. Call Five Stars of Scandinavia at 800-722-4126.
Le France Pass on Air France and Air Inter (800-237-2747)
Air France and Air Inter have teamed up to offer three passes allowing air travel anywhere within France. The basic Le France Pass is $339 and allows unlimited air travel on any seven days in a one month period. There's also a Le France Air-Car Pass for $359 which allows for two days of air travel and a one-week car rental with unlimited mileage. For students there's a Le France Youth and Student Pass for $219 which is the same as the basic pass for anyone under 25 or students under 27. All passes are valid for one year after purchase and must be bought in the U.S.
NORTH AMERICA AIR PASSES
Several of the U.S. and Canadian airlines have visit U.S.A. or North America passes. These are only available for purchase by non-U.S. and non-Canadian passport holders outside the U.S. Most also require that the passes are purchased in conjunction with a ticket on the participating airline to the U.S. or Canada. Here is information about a couple of these passes:
Visit North America on Continental & Northwest (800-231-0856)
Valid for travel anywhere in North America that Northwest and Continental airlines fly. Available only to non-U.S., non-Canadian passport holders. Must be bought outside U.S. in conjunction with an international fare to the U.S. or Canada on Continental or Northwest. For high season travel in July and August, buy a minimum of three flight coupons for $439. Four coupons will cost you $539, five are $639, and six are $699. Depending upon which airport you fly into, two coupons may be required for a flight to Hawaii. Slightly lower fares available for low season travel.
Continental and Northwest also offer the Visit USA Worldwide Pass, which is identical to the Visit North America Pass, with the exception that your international flight can be on any airline. The cost for three coupons is $549, with a maximum of eight.
Visit North America Pass on Canadian Airlines (800-426-7000)
Valid for travel anywhere in North America that Canadian Airlines flies except Hawaii. Available only to non-U.S., non-Canadian passport holders. A minimum of three flight coupons costs $369 and increases to $419 during July and August. Additional flights up to five total may be purchased for $100 each; the sixth, seventh and eighth coupons are $90 each. For Hawaii travel there's a $385 surcharge. Children's fares are available.
SOUTH AMERICA AIR PASSES
ARGENTINA AIR PASS
Visit Argentina Air Pass on Aerolineas Argentinas (800-333-0276)
The Visit Argentina Air Pass allows four flights within Argentina; the prices of which depend upon which airline you choose to fly into the country. If you fly to Argentina on Aerolineas Argentinas, you will pay $420 for four flights; and you can add up to four additional flights for $110 each. If you fly in on another airline, the pass will cost you $500, and $130 for each additional flight. The pass is valid for 30 days and must be bought outside Argentina in conjunction with an international ticket to Argentina on any airline.
Visit South America (Aeroperu 800-777-7717)
The Visit South America ticket includes airfare to/from Miami or Los Angeles to Peru, plus two round-trip tickets from Lima, Peru to any destination in South America that Aeroperu flies to. The ticket costs $1299 from Miami; and $1499 from Los Angeles. There's a $200 surcharge applicable from either city during high season from July 1- August 16th. Additional flight segments may be purchased at $200 per round-trip.
The MercoSur AirPass (Varig: 1-800-468-2744)
Available to holders of international return tickets from outside South America. Minimum 7 days, maximum 30. Countries: Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile. Maximum 8 coupons (9 including IGU/IGR), and 4 coupons per country.
The fares is based on the miles you travel. for example: 1200-1900 for $225; 1901-2500 for $285; 2501-3200 for $345; 3201-4200 for $420; etc cetera.
VIBOL Pass on Lloyd Aereo Boliviano (800-327-7407)
The VIBOL Pass allows travel to your choice of four cities in Bolivia, Potosi and Pando not being included, for $200. The pass must be bought in conjunction with an international ticket to Bolivia from Miami on Lloyd Aereo Boliviano. The flights are valid for thirty days after you pick up your pass.
Brazil Air Pass on Varig (800-468-2744)
Pass costs $490 during the low season for five flight coupons which are good for 21 days after the first flight. High season prices are in effect from June 25 - July 25, and December 10 - February 29 and are priced at $540. You may purchase up to five additional tickets, regardless of the season, for $100 a flight. You can fly anywhere in Brazil, the only restriction being that you can't repeat the same segment in the same direction. Must be purchased outside of Brazil. Varig also offers less expensive, regional versions of their Air Pass.
Visit Chile Pass on Lan Chile Airlines (800-735-5526)
The Visit Chile pass no longer offers separate packages for northern and southern travel. You can now purchase a minimum of three flights, and a maximum of six. If you fly into Chile on Lan Chile, the cost is $250 for the first 3 flights, and $60 for each additional flight. If you take any other airline it will cost $350 for the three flights, and $80 for each additional flight. The vouchers are good for 30 days after purchase. The pass must be issued in conjunction with an international ticket to Chile on any airline. Advance reservations are recommended as space is limited. Flight and date changes are allowed at no charge. Routing changes cost $30. The pass does not apply to travel to Easter Island.
Discover Colombia Air Passes on Avianca (800-284-2622)
Avianca has several different air passes for visiting Colombia, depending on when you travel, where you want to go and which airline you fly to Colombia. The basic pass allows five flights within Colombia during a 21-day period. High season prices (June, July, August, December) are $20-$30 higher. Fly Avianca to Colombia or don't go to Leticia and San Andres and you can save quite a bit. Passes must be purchased in the U.S. for travel originating outside of Colombia.
Non-Avianca to Colombia will cost $499, $529 (high season) Avianca to Colombia $250, $280 (high season) Non-Avianca & no Leticia, San Andres $389, $409 (high season) Avianca & no Leticia, San Andres $170, $190 (high season)
SOUTH PACIFIC AIR PASSES
Visit South Pacific Pass with Qantas (800-227-4500)
Qantas' Visit South Pacific Pass allows travel internationally between Australia, Fiji and New Zealand. You must purchase a minimum of two coupons, up to a maximum of eight coupons. Prices are either $175 or $220 per coupon, depending upon your destination. The pass is valid as long as your international ticket to/from Australia is valid. It is fully changeable and refundable if not used at all. Changes in city pairs will cost you $50. This pass must be bought outside Australia/New Zealand at a Qantas office or travel agent.
The Polynesian Airlines Polypass (800-644-7659)
For unlimited travel up to 45 days within their Southwest Pacific destinations network. The price of the pass is $1399 if you fly out of Los Angeles. The destination network includes Honalulu ,Western Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Rarotonga, Pago Pago, Sydney or Melbourne, Wellington or Auckland. Certain cities may be visited only once, others are unlimited.
Polynesian Airlines also offers the Triangle Pass for $448 for travel between Samoa, Tonga and Fiji, valid for up to one-year, and the airline is also one of the nine participating airlines in the new Visit South Pacific Pass, a regional pass for travel to 16 countries within the south Pacific, with select two-sector journeys which range from $175 to $300.
Visit Indonesia Decade Pass on Garuda Indonesia (800-342-7832)
The Visit Indonesia Decade Pass costs $300 for three flights anywhere within Indonesia. Up to two additional flights may be purchased for $100 each. Then, flights are $110 each up to a maximum of seven. The pass is valid for a minimum of 3 days and a maximum of 60 days. You must enter Indonesia through a "valid" gateway city on Garuda. In the US, the pass must be bought from Garuda or a Garuda consolidator. You can buy the pass in Indonesia as long as you do it within 14 days of arrival and present your Garuda ticket. All flight segments must be ticketed and confirmed three days prior to departure from the U.S. Flight dates on segments after the first one may be left open.
Visit Malaysia Pass on Malaysia Airlines (800-552-9264)
The basic Visit Malaysia Pass is good for five flights within the Malaysia Peninsula for $99. The pass is valid for 28 days. If you want to travel to Sabah and Sarawak, the pass increases to $199. You must combine the pass with one international sector to/from Malaysia on Malaysia Airlines. Pass is available only from Malaysia Airlines and only to non-Malaysia passport holders.
The air pass info is listed geographically as follows: Asia Air Passes, Australia, Baltic States, Caribbean, Central America, Europe, North America, South America and South Pacific.
ASIA AIR PASSES
Cathay Pacific Air Passes (800-CATHAY7)
Cathay Pacific is offering an All Asia Pass, which allows travelers to visit up to 15 Asian cities within 30 days for just $999. The price drops to $899 for seniors over 55 and full-time students 26 and under with proof of discount eligibility. Young adults 19 and under can also travel for $899.
Cities included in the basic All Asia Pass are: Bangkok, Cebu, Denpasar (Bali), ***uoka, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Nagoya, Osaka, Penang, Seoul, Singapore, Surabaya, Taipei, Tokyo and Hong Kong.
The pass is valid for travel departing the United States between Jan. 15, 1999 and May 7, 1999, inclusive and between Aug. 22, 1999 and Nov. 16, 1999, inclusive. U.S. departures between May 8, 1999 and Aug. 21, 1999, inclusive, are just an additional $200 -- a 50 percent discount from last year's All Asia Pass summer surcharge.
Cathay Pacific allows you to expand and/or customize the All Asia Pass. You can add a total of 18 additional cities in Australia, China, India, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam for $200 to $500 each.
Discover Thailand Air Pass with Thai Airways (800-426-5204)
The Thailand pass costs $179 for four flight coupons. Additional flights may be purchased for $49 each up to a maximum of eight. Must be issued in conjunction with a round-trip international ticket to Thailand on any airline. If you must take a connecting flight through Bangkok it will count as two flight segments. Pass is valid for 60 days. The change fee is $25.00.
Discover India Pass on Indian Airlines
The Discover India Pass costs $750 and is good for 21 days, or $500 for 14 days. You are allowed unlimited flights as long as you don't backtrack. Indian Airlines doesn't have an office in the U.S., but you can contact Air India at 800-223-2250 for more information on the pass and you can purchase the pass from your travel agent.
AUSTRALIA AIR PASSES
Boomerang Pass on Qantas (800-227-4500)
Good for domestic travel within Australia and New Zealand. Does not permit international flights between Australia and New Zealand. You can purchase a minimum of two tickets, and a maximum of 10. All of the flights will, regardless of the number you buy, will cost either $155 - $185 or $195 - $235, depending on the zone in which you are flying. The pass is valid as long as your international ticket to/from Australia is valid. It is fully changeable and refundable if not used at all. Also, any additional sectors purchased over the minimum are fully refundable if not used. See also Qantas' Visit South Pacific pass if you want to travel within and between Australia, Fiji and New Zealand.
Visit Australia Air Pass on Ansett Australia (800-366-1300)
Ansett Australia has a Visit Australia Air Pass which is good for domestic travel within Australia and New Zealand. It is almost identical in price and destinations to Qantas' Boomerang Pass.
Air New Zealand Explorer Pass (800-262-1234)
The Air New Zealand Explorer Pass is a flexible pass which includes a minimum of three flights and a maximum of eight flights. The basic pass includes three flights and costs NZ$495 (approx. USD$275). Additional flights cost approximately NZ$162 (approx. USD$92) each. The pass is valid for one year. Routing must be confirmed ahead of time, but can be changed for a fee of NZ$25 (approx. USD$14) Dates can remain open and may be changed without penalty.
BALTIC STATES AIR PASS
SAS Visit Baltic Pass (800-221-2350)
You must purchase a minimum of two tickets, which will cost $230, and a maximum of four, for $460. A surcharge of $60 applies to some flights. Valid between Copenhagen, Helsinki, Oslo, Stockholm, Kalingrad, Kiev, Moscow, Riga, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Turku, Vilnius. Coupons are valid for three months. Must be purchased in conjunction with a round-trip airfare from North America on SAS.
CARIBBEAN AIR PASSES
BWIA Caribbean Air Pass (800-538-2942)
BWIA has a pass which allows you to travel to Antigua, Barbados, Caracas, Grenada, Jamaica, Kingston, Georgetown, St. Lucia, St. Martin and Trinidad during a one-month period for $449. No backtracking is permitted, however, you may fly to the same airport twice for connecting flights. You must plan your itineray at the time of purchase; changes will cost you $20.
Super Caribbean Explorer on LIAT (268-462-0700)
The Caribbean Explorer allows you three flights to any of 26 destinations in the Caribbean where LIAT flies during a 21-day period for $262. No changes are permitted. LIAT also offers a Super Caribbean Explorer pass which includes unlimited stops in the Caribbean in one direction during a one-month period for $475. Changes are permitted after ticketing on the Super Explorer pass for a $25 service fee. These passes are non-refundable. Travelers cannot visit the same island twice except for making a connecting flight.
CENTRAL AMERICA PASS
Visit Central America (Aviateca, Copa, Lacsa, Nica, Taca)
Aviateca (800-327-9832)
The price of this ticket includes airfare to/from any gateway city in the U.S. to Central America, then at least one flight within Central America or to South America. Ticket prices start at $539, not including taxes, and vary depending on departure city and destinations.
EUROPE AIR PASSES
Discover Europe with British Midlands Air Pass (800-788-0555)
British Midland Airlines which flies from London to points throughout Great Britain and Europe has a very flexible air pass program. Buy as many flights as you want for only $109 each way for flights 90 minutes or less, and $149 for flights over 90 minutes. You will need to purchase the pass before you leave and it is valid for one year. It is refundable if unused, for a $50 service fee. You must be a U.S. resident to purchase this pass and you must buy it from a travel agent. There is a $50 change fee if itinerary changes once ticketed. What's nice about this pass is there's no minimum number of flights to purchase and often you can combine it with a cheap fare to London to fly to a more expensive destination in Europe for less than it would have cost you to fly to that destination directly from the U.S. Only the first flight requires a reservation at the time of purchase.
Europe Air Pass on British Airways (800-247-9297)
The Europe Air Pass is good for travel on British Airways, TAT, Deutsche BA, and Gibraltar Air in Europe, and Israel. The pass is valid for a maximum of 90 days and minimum of seven. You must buy 3-12 flight coupons. Pricing per flight varies from $92-$185 depending on which of the four regional zones you wish to travel in. Many intra-Europe destinations will require two coupons and backtracking through a major hub such as London, but you will still save considerable money, particularly to some Eastern European destinations and to Israel. Itineraries need to be planned at least 7 days prior to international departure. Routing changes are not permitted, however, dates and flights may be changed for a $40 penalty providing the change is made prior to the flight date. This pass is available only to U.S. residents, and must be purchased in conjunction with a transatlantic flight to London, Birmingham, Manchester, or Glascow on any airline using any published fare. Discounted rates are available for children and infants.
Discover Europe with Lufthansa
Available for most European destinations, a minimum of 3 coupons cost $140 each in peak travel times; $125 during off-peak times. There is a maximum of nine coupons. Your travel must begin and end in Germany. Must be purchased in conjunction with a round-trip, international flight originating in North America.
Euroflyer Pass with Air France (800-237-2747)
If you buy a round-trip ticket from the U.S. to Paris on Air France or to Brussels on Sabena or to Prague on CSA-Czechoslovak Airlines, you can then purchase coupons for air travel within Europe on any of these airlines plus Air Inter for $120 each. Each coupon entitles you to a one-way flight in Europe to over 100 European cities. You must purchase a minimum of three coupons and a maximum of nine coupons and use the coupons within two months after the first one. The coupons may be purchased in conjunction with any published fare, which means consolidator tickets are probably out. You must purchase the pass in the U.S.
Passport to Europe on Northwest and KLM (800-374-7747)
Buy a ticket to Europe on Northwest or KLM and you can buy a Passport to Europe ticket including three flights within Europe for only $300 during LOW season. Price increases to $390 during PEAK season (6/1 - 8/31 and 12/15 - 12/23). An additional category, called SHOULDER season will run you $330. Additional flights can be purchased as well, up to 12. After the first three, prices decrease -- the fourth and fifth flights will cost $80; and the sixth and seventh $70. Only drawback to this ticket is that all KLM flights go through Amsterdam which will require two coupons for most intra-Europe flights. Pass is valid for as long as your international ticket. Good also for travel on Air UK, Trans Avia, and EuroWings.
SAS Visit Europe Pass (800-221-2350)
There is no minimum number of tickets to purchase. One will cost $180; two will cost $280; three will cost $375. The maximum number of flights is eight, for $1000. Valid between Scandinavia and all European destinations on SAS and within UK and between UK and Europe on British Midland. Must be purchased in conjunction with a round-trip airfare from North America on SAS. You can change your travel dates after purchase at no charge; route changes will cost $50. Pass is valid for three months.
SAS Visit Scandinavia Pass (800-221-2350)
The Visit Scandinavia Pass costs $90 per flight up to a maximum of six flight coupons. There is a $60 surcharge for travel from Oslo to Alta, Kirkenes, Longyearbyen or Tromso. Must be purchased in conjunction with a round-trip airfare from North America on British Midland, SAS or Varig. Fly between Denmark, Norway and Sweden; between Finland and Sweden; and within Norway and Sweden. Pass is valid for three months.
EurAir Pass (888/387-2479)
U.S. travelers to Europe can fly on 12 different airlines to more than 60 cities within Europe at the flat rate of $90 per flight plus airport taxes with a EurAir Pass. The EurAir Pass, available only to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, is sold in packets of three or more flight coupons. Each $90 coupon is valid for a non-stop flight between any two cities within the system. Reservations can be made prior to leaving the U.S., or after travelers arrive in Europe. EurAir is pretty flexibility in that you can travel with pre-arranged schedules or to invent your itinerary on the go.
Iberia EuroPass (800-772-4642)
Purchase a minimum of one round-trip ticket from Madrid to another European destination for $250, with three exceptions: Moscow; Tel Aviv; and Cairo. Those cities will cost $310. There is no maximum number of flights. Ticket must be purchased in conjunction with a transatlantic flight on Iberia, from either Miami or New York.
Visit Spain Airpass (800-772-4642)
The Visit Spain Airpass includes four flight coupons for travel anywhere in Spain on Aviaco or Iberia and costs $240 or $299, depending on the time of year. The maximum number of coupons you may purchase is eight. There's a $50 surcharge per pass to include travel to the Canary Islands. Pass is valid for 60 days and must be purchased in conjunction with a transatlantic ticket. Changes in destinations will cost you $50.
Austrian Airlines (800-843-0002)
Buy a ticket to Austria or Switzerland from the U.S. on Austrian Airlines and you can buy a minimum of three and a maximum of eight European flights on Austrian Airlines, Sabena, SwissAir, Tyrolean or Crossair for $130 each. If you use any other airline, the cost is $150 per ticket. Travel between Austrian cities are $80 each. Dates may be changed without penalty. Routing changes incur a $50 penalty. No changes permitted on the first flight. Coupons are valid for a maximum of two months.
Malev Hungarian Airlines (800-223-6884)
Buy a transatlantic ticket to Budapest on Malev, the Hungarian airline, and you can buy three flight coupons for flights within Europe on Malev for $330, additional coupons (up to a maximum of 9) may be purchased for $90 each. Price increases to $420 for flights during April through October (additional coupons are $110). All of Malev's flights go through Budapest and connecting flights will require two coupons.
Visit Norway Pass with Braathens Safe
Each coupon costs $85 (within North Norway or South Norway) or $140 between North and South Norway. May be purchased in conjunction with a round-trip, international airfare purchased from any carrier. Call Five Stars of Scandinavia at 800-722-4126.
Le France Pass on Air France and Air Inter (800-237-2747)
Air France and Air Inter have teamed up to offer three passes allowing air travel anywhere within France. The basic Le France Pass is $339 and allows unlimited air travel on any seven days in a one month period. There's also a Le France Air-Car Pass for $359 which allows for two days of air travel and a one-week car rental with unlimited mileage. For students there's a Le France Youth and Student Pass for $219 which is the same as the basic pass for anyone under 25 or students under 27. All passes are valid for one year after purchase and must be bought in the U.S.
NORTH AMERICA AIR PASSES
Several of the U.S. and Canadian airlines have visit U.S.A. or North America passes. These are only available for purchase by non-U.S. and non-Canadian passport holders outside the U.S. Most also require that the passes are purchased in conjunction with a ticket on the participating airline to the U.S. or Canada. Here is information about a couple of these passes:
Visit North America on Continental & Northwest (800-231-0856)
Valid for travel anywhere in North America that Northwest and Continental airlines fly. Available only to non-U.S., non-Canadian passport holders. Must be bought outside U.S. in conjunction with an international fare to the U.S. or Canada on Continental or Northwest. For high season travel in July and August, buy a minimum of three flight coupons for $439. Four coupons will cost you $539, five are $639, and six are $699. Depending upon which airport you fly into, two coupons may be required for a flight to Hawaii. Slightly lower fares available for low season travel.
Continental and Northwest also offer the Visit USA Worldwide Pass, which is identical to the Visit North America Pass, with the exception that your international flight can be on any airline. The cost for three coupons is $549, with a maximum of eight.
Visit North America Pass on Canadian Airlines (800-426-7000)
Valid for travel anywhere in North America that Canadian Airlines flies except Hawaii. Available only to non-U.S., non-Canadian passport holders. A minimum of three flight coupons costs $369 and increases to $419 during July and August. Additional flights up to five total may be purchased for $100 each; the sixth, seventh and eighth coupons are $90 each. For Hawaii travel there's a $385 surcharge. Children's fares are available.
SOUTH AMERICA AIR PASSES
ARGENTINA AIR PASS
Visit Argentina Air Pass on Aerolineas Argentinas (800-333-0276)
The Visit Argentina Air Pass allows four flights within Argentina; the prices of which depend upon which airline you choose to fly into the country. If you fly to Argentina on Aerolineas Argentinas, you will pay $420 for four flights; and you can add up to four additional flights for $110 each. If you fly in on another airline, the pass will cost you $500, and $130 for each additional flight. The pass is valid for 30 days and must be bought outside Argentina in conjunction with an international ticket to Argentina on any airline.
Visit South America (Aeroperu 800-777-7717)
The Visit South America ticket includes airfare to/from Miami or Los Angeles to Peru, plus two round-trip tickets from Lima, Peru to any destination in South America that Aeroperu flies to. The ticket costs $1299 from Miami; and $1499 from Los Angeles. There's a $200 surcharge applicable from either city during high season from July 1- August 16th. Additional flight segments may be purchased at $200 per round-trip.
The MercoSur AirPass (Varig: 1-800-468-2744)
Available to holders of international return tickets from outside South America. Minimum 7 days, maximum 30. Countries: Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile. Maximum 8 coupons (9 including IGU/IGR), and 4 coupons per country.
The fares is based on the miles you travel. for example: 1200-1900 for $225; 1901-2500 for $285; 2501-3200 for $345; 3201-4200 for $420; etc cetera.
VIBOL Pass on Lloyd Aereo Boliviano (800-327-7407)
The VIBOL Pass allows travel to your choice of four cities in Bolivia, Potosi and Pando not being included, for $200. The pass must be bought in conjunction with an international ticket to Bolivia from Miami on Lloyd Aereo Boliviano. The flights are valid for thirty days after you pick up your pass.
Brazil Air Pass on Varig (800-468-2744)
Pass costs $490 during the low season for five flight coupons which are good for 21 days after the first flight. High season prices are in effect from June 25 - July 25, and December 10 - February 29 and are priced at $540. You may purchase up to five additional tickets, regardless of the season, for $100 a flight. You can fly anywhere in Brazil, the only restriction being that you can't repeat the same segment in the same direction. Must be purchased outside of Brazil. Varig also offers less expensive, regional versions of their Air Pass.
Visit Chile Pass on Lan Chile Airlines (800-735-5526)
The Visit Chile pass no longer offers separate packages for northern and southern travel. You can now purchase a minimum of three flights, and a maximum of six. If you fly into Chile on Lan Chile, the cost is $250 for the first 3 flights, and $60 for each additional flight. If you take any other airline it will cost $350 for the three flights, and $80 for each additional flight. The vouchers are good for 30 days after purchase. The pass must be issued in conjunction with an international ticket to Chile on any airline. Advance reservations are recommended as space is limited. Flight and date changes are allowed at no charge. Routing changes cost $30. The pass does not apply to travel to Easter Island.
Discover Colombia Air Passes on Avianca (800-284-2622)
Avianca has several different air passes for visiting Colombia, depending on when you travel, where you want to go and which airline you fly to Colombia. The basic pass allows five flights within Colombia during a 21-day period. High season prices (June, July, August, December) are $20-$30 higher. Fly Avianca to Colombia or don't go to Leticia and San Andres and you can save quite a bit. Passes must be purchased in the U.S. for travel originating outside of Colombia.
Non-Avianca to Colombia will cost $499, $529 (high season) Avianca to Colombia $250, $280 (high season) Non-Avianca & no Leticia, San Andres $389, $409 (high season) Avianca & no Leticia, San Andres $170, $190 (high season)
SOUTH PACIFIC AIR PASSES
Visit South Pacific Pass with Qantas (800-227-4500)
Qantas' Visit South Pacific Pass allows travel internationally between Australia, Fiji and New Zealand. You must purchase a minimum of two coupons, up to a maximum of eight coupons. Prices are either $175 or $220 per coupon, depending upon your destination. The pass is valid as long as your international ticket to/from Australia is valid. It is fully changeable and refundable if not used at all. Changes in city pairs will cost you $50. This pass must be bought outside Australia/New Zealand at a Qantas office or travel agent.
The Polynesian Airlines Polypass (800-644-7659)
For unlimited travel up to 45 days within their Southwest Pacific destinations network. The price of the pass is $1399 if you fly out of Los Angeles. The destination network includes Honalulu ,Western Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Rarotonga, Pago Pago, Sydney or Melbourne, Wellington or Auckland. Certain cities may be visited only once, others are unlimited.
Polynesian Airlines also offers the Triangle Pass for $448 for travel between Samoa, Tonga and Fiji, valid for up to one-year, and the airline is also one of the nine participating airlines in the new Visit South Pacific Pass, a regional pass for travel to 16 countries within the south Pacific, with select two-sector journeys which range from $175 to $300.
Visit Indonesia Decade Pass on Garuda Indonesia (800-342-7832)
The Visit Indonesia Decade Pass costs $300 for three flights anywhere within Indonesia. Up to two additional flights may be purchased for $100 each. Then, flights are $110 each up to a maximum of seven. The pass is valid for a minimum of 3 days and a maximum of 60 days. You must enter Indonesia through a "valid" gateway city on Garuda. In the US, the pass must be bought from Garuda or a Garuda consolidator. You can buy the pass in Indonesia as long as you do it within 14 days of arrival and present your Garuda ticket. All flight segments must be ticketed and confirmed three days prior to departure from the U.S. Flight dates on segments after the first one may be left open.
Visit Malaysia Pass on Malaysia Airlines (800-552-9264)
The basic Visit Malaysia Pass is good for five flights within the Malaysia Peninsula for $99. The pass is valid for 28 days. If you want to travel to Sabah and Sarawak, the pass increases to $199. You must combine the pass with one international sector to/from Malaysia on Malaysia Airlines. Pass is available only from Malaysia Airlines and only to non-Malaysia passport holders.
Aug 20, 1999 | 5:55 pm
#7
Join Date: Feb 1999
Location: T82
Programs: AA Gold, HH Gold
Posts: 2,845
You're right, kyklin. And unfortunately, some of the others don't either. We used the British Airways pass to fly between cities in Europe two years ago and earned AAdvantage miles at actual flight miles, or 500 minimum, whichever was greater.
Also used a Swissair pass 4 years ago and earned miles on Delta.
The Qantas Boomerang pass earns only 500 miles per flight period on AA.
Also used a Swissair pass 4 years ago and earned miles on Delta.
The Qantas Boomerang pass earns only 500 miles per flight period on AA.
Aug 20, 1999 | 9:38 pm
#8
Senior Moderator; Moderator, Flyertalk Cares
Join Date: Jun 1999
Location: Fulltime travel/mostly Europe
Programs: UA 1.7 MM;; Accor & Marriott Pt; Hyatt Globalist
Posts: 17,928
Thanks for the information, which I plan to print out.
I just used the SAS pass and received United miles for actual miles flown. It worked out great, but it definitely pays to research the flights and get non-stops to your destinations. For example, flying from Bergen to Stockholm costs double if you connect in Oslo (you pay for two flights), but by changing my flight time by an hour and getting the non-stop I only paid for one flight. There were six of us traveling so it made a considerable difference.
I just used the SAS pass and received United miles for actual miles flown. It worked out great, but it definitely pays to research the flights and get non-stops to your destinations. For example, flying from Bergen to Stockholm costs double if you connect in Oslo (you pay for two flights), but by changing my flight time by an hour and getting the non-stop I only paid for one flight. There were six of us traveling so it made a considerable difference.
Aug 20, 1999 | 9:56 pm
#9
Join Date: May 1998
Programs: AAExecPlat MM, DL MM, HH Platinum
Posts: 509
RE: Australian Air Passes. They are wonderful, but push your agent or the Qantas or Air New Zealand agent to see if there are cheaper options re: zones. In some instances, they can come up with cheaper fares that require date and time, but which can be changed without a penalty. Have them look at the MINTL fares. I know it's lowered the cost of my ticket several times, and I always start with the Air Passes in terms of ticketing after the LAX-SYD leg,and then go on to a quote on MINTL, etc.