QANTAS: Club joining fee reduced. Renewal fees increased

Its now about 75% cheaper to join the Qantas club, with the joining fee reduced from AU$399 down to AU$99.

However, if you are renewing, then the fees have gone up by roughly 10% – slightly lesser or greater according to how long your renewal period is:

• Joining fee: was $399, now $99
• 1 year renewal: was $540, now $600 (+11%)
• 2 year renewal: was $980, now $1,100 (+12%)
• 4 year renewal: was $1,850, now $2,000 (+8% )

Benefits

Lounge access is the big one, and you can invite a guest, but there are a few other things you might value, such as more checked baggage and the ability to request a points-based upgrade to Business ‘on departure’ for domestic flights. You can also request this if you have Gold status or above.

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.

Expect this to bring in the pack. Qantas domestic clubs will soon be heaving if people take up this amazing reduced price offer. For me, this provides even more incentive to retain my Platinum status so I can still get into the Business lounges.