Qantas frequent flyers from Singapore can keep their benefits when on parental leave

Qantas frequent flyers who reside in Singapore who are on parental leave can now look forward to keeping their membership benefits.

Previously, silver, gold and platinum frequent flyers would see their status drop when they took time out to raise a child as they were not flying as much as they used to.

The Status Hold initiative for frequent flyers residing in Singapore lets eligible male and female silver, gold and platinum frequent flyers keep their status for up to 12 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.

The Status Hold initiative for Singaporean parents also includes those welcoming a foster or adopted child.

Qantas has also increased its family transfer points limit and removed the restriction on the number of transfers for frequent flyers.

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 programme 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," said Ms Grant.

"Singaporeans are avid travellers, both for business and leisure. Status Hold is designed to ensure our Singaporean members who are taking a break from their careers to start a family are looked after during this important stage of their lives.

"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 12 months," added Ms Grant.

Members looking to continue expanding their family can apply for Status Hold twice during a five year period.

Full details on eligibility and how to apply can be found here.

spanaech@sph.com.sg