Qantas has launched a new initiative to help its Frequent Flyers keep the benefits of their membership status while on parental leave.
 
Previously, Silver, Gold and Platinum Frequent Flyers would often see their status drop when they took time out to raise a child if they were not flying as frequently as they used to.
 
From today, the Status Hold initiative lets eligible Silver, Gold and Platinum Frequent Flyers keep their status for up to 18 months, even if they are not earning the number of Status Credits usually required to retain that tier. These members will also continue to enjoy their existing tier benefits, which may include lounge access, bonus points offers and preferred seating options.
 
In addition to the launch of the Status Hold initiative for parents, Qantas Frequent Flyer has increased its Family Transfer points limit and removed the restriction on the number of transfers. Members can now make an unlimited number of transfers to eligible family members up to 600,000 Qantas Points each year, compared to 400,000 previously.
 
Qantas Loyalty CEO Lesley Grant said the changes have been prompted by feedback from members wanting more flexibility from their Qantas Frequent Flyer membership, especially when they take parental leave and are more ‘grounded’ than normal.
 
“The Qantas Frequent Flyer program is about rewarding loyalty and someone’s Silver, Gold or Platinum status is a symbol of the loyalty they’ve shown Qantas over the years so we really want to recognise that,” Ms Grant said.
 
“Status Hold is designed to suit their evolving lifestyle and family needs. A new addition to a family is an exciting time, so this initiative means new parents don’t have to worry about losing their hard earned membership benefits for up to 18 months.
 
“We recognise that all families are a bit different, so Status Hold will apply to men and women and those welcoming a foster or adopted child,” added Ms Grant.