Hi all, Does anyone have any tidbits/info on traps to avoid on earning MQMs for a flight from LHR to Christchurch, NZ? The flights would be booked on a VA or DJ code. The fares aren't that competitive unfortunately and stopovers aren't allowed, so this trip would only be worth it if MQM accrual is guaranteed. Just want to make sure I haven't missed anything.
LHR to CHC? You're not going to get miles for a big chunk of that route since VA doesn't fly to LHR. (It looks like the cheapest fares us EY to AUH and then you could change to VA for AUH-SYD on the days when it operates.) To maximize MQMs from the UK to Australasia (without doing something silly like flying via the US), you basically need to fly KE, CZ, MU, or VN. The first three fly between LHR and their hubs, and the first and last fly between LGW and their hubs. From there, book yourself to SYD or MEL and buy a VA ticket to CHC. Alternatively, fly a ST member to AKL and then NZ to CHC.
Sorry, I should have specified that the options showing up on Virgin Australia's site show Etihad flying from LHR to Abu Dhabi and Etihad from Abu Dhabi to Brisbane/Australia. Would the MQMs count though, given the flight has a VA code?
Unlikely. Generally, a partner flight must be operated by that partner to earn. The exception is SkyTeam-coded flights operated by other SkyTeam members.
