Members of Etihad’s frequent flyer program, Etihad Guest, will see some significant changes coming into effect from the beginning of this week.

The changes are a result of Etihad’s partnership with Virgin Australia, integrating the Virgin Australia Velocity and the Etihad Guest programs.

The changes affecting Australian business travellers will occur when miles earned flying on Virgin Australia domestic flights are put towards Etihad’s guest program.

Here is a summary of the main changes.

Miles needed to redeem a seat

The amount of miles needed to redeem a seat has increased or decreased on selected routes. Abu Dhabi to Sydney has increased, and Abu Dhabi to London has decreased.

Economy seats upgradeable to business with miles

All economy seats, no matter which booking class they fall under, will be upgradeable to business class in exchange for miles.

Upgrades from business to first class

All members will be able to upgrade from business to first class in exchange for miles. Keep in mind, the number of points needed to fly out of Australia has gone up.

Luggage allowances

Entry-level Etihad Guest members will receive 5kg of luggage allowance. Elite allowances remain the same with 10kg for silver members, 15kg for Gold members and 20kg for Gold Elites.

Low level frequent flyer points expire sooner

For entry-level members, frequent flyer miles will expire after 2 years, after 2 ½ years for Silver members. Gold and top-tier gold elite members will still get three years of mile validity.

For more information and full details of changes please visit the Etihad website.