Airlines slash frequent flyer upgrade value as direct business bookings prove cheaper

Frequent flyer points upgrades from economy to business class offer poor value compared to booking business class from the start, industry analysis shows. Virgin Australia upgrades to Perth cost 30,000 points plus a full airfare, while direct business bookings cost only 35,500 points with minimal additional fees. Airlines have deliberately increased upgrade costs, narrowing savings and eliminating the gamble.

Summary by Glance · SMH