Qantas Unveils Historic Frequent Flyer Program Overhaul for 2026
Qantas customers pursuing Gold or Platinum Frequent Flyer status may find their ambitions more achievable in 2026, as the airline today announced the most significant changes to the program since its inception. These reforms, described as a new era for loyalty, will introduce flexible earning and retention options, while streamlining the overall structure.
Groundbreaking Earning Opportunities and Status Credit Rollover
In a major shift, members will soon be able to earn Status Credits through everyday spending on the ground, similar to how they accumulate Qantas points. This will be facilitated via select credit cards and program partners, marking a departure from the traditional model where Status Credits were exclusively earned from flying. Additionally, for the first time, members can roll over up to 50% of their excess Status Credits into the next membership year, with caps based on tier: 100 for Silver, 350 for Gold, and 500 for Platinum. This replaces previous loyalty bonuses and aims to provide a head start for status retention.
Streamlining and Enhanced Benefits
To reduce program complexity, Qantas is retiring the popular Green Tier and Points Club Plus schemes. The removal of Green Tier means members will no longer earn annual bonuses for sustainable activities, though the airline promises new ways to reward eco-friendly choices. Points Club Plus retirement ends complimentary Qantas Club membership for high earners. Conversely, enhancements include greater recognition for Lifetime Gold members, who can now earn and bank up to five complimentary years of Platinum Status. Silver members will receive an additional lounge invitation yearly, alongside new vouchers and discounts for all higher tiers.
Digital Improvements and Financial Context
A new search tool on the Qantas website will launch next month, enabling members to quickly find international Classic Reward seats on Qantas and partner airlines. These changes come as Qantas Group reports an Underlying Profit before tax of $1.46 billion and a 19% spike in Qantas Loyalty revenue. CEO Vanessa Hudson stated the overhaul offers greater flexibility and faster recognition, responding to a changing loyalty landscape and member feedback.
Key Changes Summarised
- Status Credits on the Ground: Earn up to 140 additional Status Credits yearly from everyday categories, counting towards Lifetime status.
- Status Credit Rollover: Roll over up to 50% of unused credits, with tier-based caps, launching in 2026.
- More Lifetime Milestones: Lifetime Gold members can bank complimentary Platinum years, starting in 2027.
- Enhanced Tier Benefits: Silver members get extra lounge invites; all tiers receive new vouchers and discounts.
- Removing Program Complexity: Points Club and Green Tier retired, with benefits integrated into the core program.
- Single Status Credit Targets: Simplified tier requirements, e.g., Gold now needs 700 credits annually, from 2027.
- Improved Digital Experience: New search tool for reward seats on Qantas and 30 partner airlines.
These progressive updates, based on extensive feedback, aim to make status more accessible while ensuring the program remains relevant for its 18 million members.
