Summary
- Qantas relaunched Sydney-Paris flights via Perth after 20 years and offers a lounge access pass for $99.
- Qantas introduced new 28-day pass for lounge access at $99 plus $129 joining fee.
- Lounge access is available through Qantas Club membership, frequent flying, or Priority Pass with various plans.
This week has seen some exciting announcements for the Australian flag carrier Qantas. For one, they have launched flights from Sydney to Paris (via Perth) after a 20-year hiatus, having previously served both capitals via Singapore.
Now, Aussie flyers and those exploring the country after getting off the growing list of ultra-long-haul flights can access lounges even if they aren’t flying in business class. Let’s see how.
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I want to benefit. What should I do?
According to news.com.au, Qantas has introduced a new 28-day pass for $99, allowing passengers to enjoy access to its lounges without paying an annual fee. However, this pass has a $129 joining fee and can be canceled anytime. Interestingly, if travelers cancel their membership and then rejoin within 90 days, they can avoid the joining fee.
On the other hand, the “Qantas Club Flexible” product is available for $699 annually and provides access to up to 30 Qantas lounges in Australia and other areas. It’s important to note that, unlike the traditional annual membership, guests are not permitted to use this pass.
How else can I access the lounge without paying the fee?
To access the lounge on all your travels when flying with oneworld airlines, including Qantas, oneworld frequent flyers with Sapphire and Emerald status must fly extensively.
This typically involves flying at least one business class return flight per month.
Remember that specific figures and requirements may differ depending on the airline. Still, this general guideline should give you a good idea of the level of travel needed to maintain lounge access.
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Other ways to access airport lounges without being a frequent flier.
Priority passes can be a good way to access many lounges worldwide; their website states that there are over 1,500 airport lounges and experiences worldwide, and of course, they extend beyond Qantas.
Photo: DreamerAchieverNoraTarvus | Shutterstock
The Priority Pass program offers three different membership plans, each catered to different travel habits:
The STANDARD plan is priced at £69/€89/$99 and is tailored for those who travel on occasion only. A visit fee of £24/€30/$35 applies for members and guests.
– The STANDARD PLUS plan costs £229/€289/$329, making it suitable for regular travelers. It provides ten complimentary visits, with a subsequent fee of £24/€30/$35 for members and their guests.
The PRESTIGE plan, set at £419/€459/$469, is aimed at frequent travelers. It offers unlimited member visits at no additional cost. Guest visits are charged at £24/€30/$35.
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Bottom line
Qantas has reignited excitement with its announcement of flights from Sydney to Paris via Perth after a 20-yea break. They now offer a new way to enjoy lounge access without an expensive membership. For $99, passengers can purchase a 28-day pass, although a $129 joining fee applies.
Alternatively, the $699 annual “Qantas Club Flexible” membership offers broader lounge access, albeit without guest privileges. Frequent flyers with oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status achieve lounge access through substantial travel. Additionally, Priority Pass provides global lounge access via several membership plans, accommodating varied traveler frequencies and budgets.
