Platinum One will only be available for a select group of the airline’s most loyal customers.

Qantas Frequent Flyer Chief Executive Officer Simon Hickey said he was very pleased to be launching the Platinum One program.    “Qantas Frequent Flyer has introduced Platinum One based on feedback from many of our Platinum members,” he said.   “Platinum One will offer members access to an outstanding range of benefits as well the exceptional service delivered by a dedicated Platinum One Special Service team.”

From 7 November 2011, Platinum One member benefits will include:

• A dedicated contact number to link members to the Platinum One Special Service Team, which will monitor, support and enhance their travel experience every step of the way;
• Assistance with access to additional Qantas Classic Awards and Flight Upgrade Awards, on Qantas operated flights (with a Qantas flight number on their ticket);
• Confirmation of successful upgrade requests as early as seven days prior to departure (for Qantas operated services with a Qantas flight number on their ticket),
• Complimentary membership of epiQure by Qantas Frequent Flyer, the recently launched premium food and wine club;
• Personalised gifts and experiences, from a ticket to a Qantas sponsored event to an experience inside a Qantas flight simulator and more.

Inaugural Platinum One members will be notified of their inclusion in the program by 7 November 2011. Each inaugural member will qualify for the exclusive new tier status based on flight activity throughout the year prior to 1 November 2011. Subsequent to 1 November 2011, Platinum One membership will be assessed based on flight activity during their membership year.

In addition to the introduction of Platinum One, Qantas has also announced the following additional improvements to Flight Upgrade Awards:    International services (from December 2011):

• The ability to register for a Flight Upgrade Award at any time from booking up until 24 hours before a scheduled departure;
• Platinum members may receive successful Flight Upgrade Award confirmation from up to 48 hours before their departure date;