Episode 4 - Major Velocity Frequent Flyer Changes & Lord Howe Island

In Travel Pointers Episode 4, Matt and Chris share their thoughts and opinions about the changes Virgin Australia is making to its Velocity Frequent Flyer program over the next year. These include changes to the way flyers earn and redeem points, the introduction of Platinum Plus and Forever Gold status, and Virgin making status much harder for most people to earn.

With Qantas just retiring its last Boeing 717, Chris and Matt reflect on the iconic plane that's graced Australian skies for almost 25 years.

The pair also discuss the what the recent news regarding air service to Lord Howe Island means for frequent flyers. Qantas currently flies to this island paradise between Australia and New Zealand, and this flight is one of the best uses of Qantas Points. But with Qantas soon retiring the only plane in its fleet capable of operating this service, it's doing some succession planning.

Each episode begins with a discussion about recent Australian travel and frequent flyer news. In this episode:

• Qatar Airways eyes 25% stake in Virgin Australia
• Qantas adds reward seats with Oman Air
• Qantas Adds Airlink Codeshares
• Australia's Incoming Passenger Card Finally on the Way Out
• QantasLink Retires Its Last Boeing 717
• Qantas Adds Flights to Palau
• Welcome Change to Qantas Flight Credits
• You Can Now Convert Amex Points to Alaska Miles (via HawaiianMiles)

Here’s where you can also find more information about other topics discussed in this episode:

• Compare credit cards on Point Hacks
• Summary of the changes to Velocity Frequent Flyer
• AFF discussion thread about the Velocity program changes
• AFF's Meetings & Social Events forum
• Qantas Retreating from Lord Howe Island in 2026