Qantas announces big loyalty program changes, profit climbs
The national airline saw strong demand for domestic flights as its profit edged 5.1 per cent higher and it lifted its dividend for shareholders.
Qantas said members of its loyalty scheme will now be able to earn status credits without flying to help them earn flight upgrades and lounge access through everyday spending.
Previously the 18.3 members of its Frequent Flyer Scheme could only earn points via on-ground spending, but the airline said on Thursday that status credits could now be earned to help members move through its Bronze to Platinum One membership classes.
Soaring profitability at Jetstar helped national carrier Qantas lifts its adjusted profit 5.1 per cent to $1.46 billion for the six month period ending December 31, 2025.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The group will pay a dividend of 19.8 cents per share and announced a share buyback worth up to $150 million as it boasted its customer satisfaction ratings are improving after a torrid few years of underinvestment.
Chief executive Vanessa Hudson attributed the result to a new fleet of more efficient aircraft as it continues to undertake the largest fleet renewal in its history.
“We’re already seeing the benefits from the next generation aircraft that are flying, which along with strong demand, our dual brand strategy and expanding Loyalty business, helped us deliver another strong result,” said chief executive Vanessa Hudson.
Domestic strong, international flat
Jetstar’s domestic operations saw underlying EBIT jumped 38 per cent thanks to strong leisure travel demand during the Ashes and summer holiday season, with the premium Qantas airline seeing revenue climb 5 per cent.
Its international business benefited from strong demand for flights to Bali, Japan, and New Zealand, although adjusted group EBIT for its international business including longer-distant routes fell 6 per cent as leisure travellers faced soaring ticket prices.
Ms Hudson also warned the airline saw airport charges and government fees double the rate of inflation over the past 12 months.
The group is guiding for adjusted EBIT growth between 10 per cent and 12 per cent over the 12 months to June 30.
Its statutory profit finished at $925 million, up $2 million on the prior year period.
More to come.
