Emirates: There goes my chance to redeem first class using Qantas points?

From 1 April 2021, Emirates will stop some of its partner airlines from redeeming Frequent Flyer points for First Class suites tickets. Unfortunately, Emirates seems to be keeping mum on which partners this applies to.

We do know from that Emirates is dropping Alaska Airlines for this benefit.

Rest easy, other seat categories like Business and Economy are still available. Phew!

Qantas still has access to Emirates First Class?

We don’t know. Emirates have refused to specify what other partners might be denied access to points bookings of First Class, although, according to ET, Qantas redemptions will not be affected. Well that’s a relief.

You will find the Suites on Emirates A380’s (if they are flying) and B777-300ER, some of which have the new Private Suite design.

2PAXfly Takeout

The aviation industry has a difficult road ahead when it comes to sustainability. It’s going to require a relative revolution in technology, with ‘electric planes’ or hydrogen planes, or some form of jet engine that doesn’t require a carbon based fuel. And that is going to require the development of an alternative to jet engines probably.

It’s a big ask. It will take time to develop.

This move to home grown and manufactured SAF is a first step – maybe even a baby step in a very long road of innovation. In the long run, US$200 million won’t even touch the sides.

Looks like I might still have a chance of redeeming Qantas points for these pointy end suites on Emirates, and those showers, if Emirates stops the grounding of all those A380’s.

This with the news that Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine is 90% effective makes for a good start to today!