Virgin takes Kiwis as frequent flyers

SYDNEY - Australian budget carrier Virgin Blue has launched its long-anticipated frequent flyer programme, with New Zealanders also able to benefit when travelling on partner airlines Pacific Blue and Polynesian Blue.

Virgin Blue chief executive Brett Godfrey unveiled the programme yesterday. "New Zealand members are welcome today and we think they'll come on board," Godfrey said.

The Virgin Blue programme has been launched in conjunction with a National Australia Bank credit card, but New Zealanders will receive the standard membership card as there are no immediate plans to form a partnership with a New Zealand financial institution.

Godfrey said the key point of difference between Virgin Blue's Velocity programme and rival frequent flyer schemes was its promise that travellers could redeem their points on any seat on any flight at any time.

Rather than devote a percentage of seats on each service for rewards flights, Godfrey said if any route showed availability the seats could be secured with air points.

He also said Virgin Blue would not enforce "blackout" periods at times of peak travel, and members' points would be protected if the company dropped the programme.

Godfrey said travellers would earn six points for every dollar spent. Redemption flights start at 4600 points on the Australian domestic network.

According to the Virgin Blue website, return flights between Auckland and Sydney require between 32,400 and 88,000 points. Christchurch to Brisbane return ranges from 34,000 to 82,300 points.

Virgin Blue shares closed 7Ac higher at A$1.67.

- NZPA