Once you’ve experienced the luxury of travelling at the pointy end, it’s hard to go back. After all, who could say no to a chance to sample exquisite dining, enjoy the privacy of an all-enclosed suite, and even the chance to shower in the sky.
Of course, the pointy end of the plane doesn’t usually come cheap. The cost of first and business class flights is considered out of reach for many.
Enter American Express Membership Rewards®. The points earned from this flexible rewards program transfer to a wide range of partner airlines, helping you to locate a dream flight redemption sooner.
Here are our favourite first and business class flights you can book using your American Express Membership Rewards points2. The points redemption rates referenced in this article are current as of 19 July 2024.
First Class Redemptions
Abu Dhabi to London or Paris in the Etihad First Class Apartment
Points Needed: 156,000 Amex Membership Rewards points (transferred to 78,000 Velocity points) plus applicable carrier charges.
Transfer Partner: Velocity Frequent Flyer
Velocity Frequent Flyer boasts a range of partner airlines, including the ability to book Etihad Airways first class. Experience the luxury of Etihad’s First Class Apartment, which features a spacious suite, a separate bed, and a lounge chair.
You’ll also enjoy premium dining and exclusive amenities. The Apartment offers privacy with sliding doors, a large TV screen, and even a vanity unit. There’s even an onboard chef, ready to prepare gourmet meals to your liking, making your journey as comfortable and luxurious as possible.
Tokyo to Paris or London in Japan Airlines First Class
Points Needed: 220,000 Amex Membership Rewards points (transferred to 110,000 Asia Miles) plus applicable carrier charges
Transfer Partner: Cathay Pacific Asia Miles
Japan Airlines First Class offers impeccable service, fabulous food, and fine wines, including a chance to sample the legendary Salon Champagne (retailing for upwards of AUD$1,300 per bottle!).
The JAL Suite is designed to be a peaceful sanctuary. The spacious seat converts into a fully-flat bed, and passengers are treated to a curated menu of both Japanese and Western dishes, along with a selection of premium beverages. The attentive crew ensures a personalised and memorable flying experience.
Sydney or Melbourne to Los Angeles in Qantas First Class
Points Needed: 325,600 Amex Membership Rewards points (transferred to 162,800 Qantas Points) plus applicable carrier charges
Transfer Partner: Qantas Frequent Flyer. Note that only the Membership Rewards Premium Ascent program (linked to the American Express Platinum Card) offers transfer to Qantas Frequent Flyer
Fly in Qantas First Class, which offers a luxurious experience with spacious seating, premium dining, and access to the exclusive Qantas First Lounges. The seats convert into fully-flat beds, and passengers can enjoy a personal suite with a touchscreen control system. The renowned Qantas service includes an a la carte menu designed by celebrity chef Neil Perry, ensuring a gourmet experience in the sky.
Qatar Airways First Class from Melbourne to Paris
Points Needed: 270,000 Amex Membership Rewards points (transferred to 135,000 Qatar Airways Privilege Club Avios) plus applicable carrier charges
Transfer Partner: Qatar Airways Privilege Club
Qatar Airways First Class features an intimate cabin, personalised service, and spacious seating. Passengers also enjoy premium lounge access in Doha.
The First Class cabin offers lie-flat beds, exquisite dining options, and luxury amenities. On the ground, the Al Safwa First Lounge in Doha provides an exclusive pre-flight experience with fine dining, private rooms, and a spa.
Sydney to Christchurch in Emirates First Class
Points Needed: 129,000 Amex Membership Rewards points (transferred to 64,500 Qantas Points) plus applicable carrier charges
Transfer Partner: Qantas Frequent Flyer (note that only the Membership Rewards Premium Ascent program (linked to the American Express Platinum Card) offers transfer to Qantas Frequent Flyer)
If you’re keen to test out Emirates’ A380 First Class on a short flight, this may just be the way to do it. The experience comes complete with Dom Perignon champagne, top-shelf spirits, an onboard bar, and even a chance to shower at 38,000 feet. Departing from Sydney, it’s possible to enjoy the Qantas International First Lounge before your flight.
Onboard, your Emirates First Class suite includes a private door, a fully-flat bed, and personal minibar. Passengers can indulge in a gourmet menu and enjoy perching at the onboard bar during the flight, providing a unique and refreshing experience.
Business Class Redemptions
Melbourne or Sydney to New York via Abu Dhabi in Etihad Business Class
Points Needed: 278,000 Amex Membership Rewards points (transferred to 139,000 Velocity Points) plus applicable carrier charges
Transfer Partner: Velocity Frequent Flyer
Fly in Etihad’s Business Studio, offering a comfortable fully-flat bed, gourmet dining, and access to premium lounges. The Business Studio features a unique design with direct aisle access and ample storage space. Passengers enjoy a fine dining experience with dishes created by onboard chefs, as well as extensive entertainment options on large personal screens.
Qatar Airways Qsuite Business Class from Sydney to Paris
Points Needed: 180,000 Amex Membership Rewards points (transferred to 90,000 Qatar Airways Privilege Club Avios) plus applicable carrier charges
Transfer Partner: Qatar Airways Privilege Club
In our humble opinion, the award-winning Qsuite is the best business class product in the sky. It offers private, flexible seating, excellent service, and premium amenities.
The Qsuite features sliding doors for added privacy, and the innovative design allows seats to be converted into a double bed or a four-person suite. Passengers are treated to a high-quality dining experience (including two Champagnes on pour), extensive entertainment options, and exceptional service.
Brisbane to Zurich in Cathay Pacific Business Class
Points Needed: 180,000 Amex Membership Rewards points (transferred to 90,000 Asia Miles) plus applicable carrier charges
Transfer Partner: Cathay Pacific Asia Miles
Cathay Pacific’s Business Class offers a luxurious experience with fully-flat beds, gourmet dining, and excellent service. The cabin design ensures privacy and comfort, with seats that convert into spacious beds. Passengers can enjoy a diverse menu featuring both Asian and Western cuisine, along with a selection of fine wines and beverages. The attentive crew provides a personalised and premium flying experience.
Qantas Business Class from Perth to Rome
Points Needed: 216,800 Amex Membership Rewards points (transferred to 108,400 Qantas Points) plus applicable carrier charges
Transfer Partner: Qantas Frequent Flyer (note that only the Membership Rewards Premium Ascent program (linked to the American Express Platinum Card) offers transfer to Qantas Frequent Flyer)
Fly non-stop to Rome in Qantas Business Class, enjoying spacious seating, premium dining, and excellent lounge access. This flagship route for Qantas offers a taste of La Dolce Vita with lie-flat beds, direct aisle access, and a high level of comfort. Passengers can indulge in a menu created by renowned chef Neil Perry and enjoy a wide selection of entertainment options. The journey is complemented by access to the Qantas Business Lounge at Perth Airport, providing a relaxing pre-flight experience.
Air New Zealand Business Class from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane to Auckland
Points Needed: 30,000 Amex Membership Rewards points (transferred to 15,000 Virgin Atlantic miles) plus applicable carrier charges
Transfer Partner: Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
Virgin Atlantic is a lesser-known loyalty program that can provide incredible value for Australians looking to cross the Tasman in style. Plus, savvy American Express Membership Rewards points collectors can nab a trans-tasman flight redemption at less than half the points you’d pay with Qantas or Velocity!
Relax in Air New Zealand’s herringbone seating that converts to a fully-flat bed, with high-end champagne, fine wines, and delectable meals. The Business Premier cabin offers direct aisle access for all seats, ensuring privacy and comfort. Passengers can enjoy a gourmet menu designed by celebrated chef Peter Gordon, complemented by a selection of premium New Zealand wines. The attentive crew provides exceptional service, making the journey a delightful experience.
Summing up
The American Express Platinum Card unlocks a world of luxury travel experiences across multiple travel partners. Whether you’re dreaming of a serene sanctuary in the sky or an award-winning business class seat, these redemptions could unlock incredible value.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to travel in style with 200,000 Bonus Membership Rewards points when you apply online by 1 October 2024 and spend $5,000 within the first 3 months of becoming a Card Member. T&Cs apply. New Card Members only. Learn more here.
To learn more about the Platinum Card and current offer, head here.
This article was prepared in partnership with American Express.
Annual Card fee is $1,450.
Cards are offered, issued, and administered by American Express Australia Limited ABN 92 108 952 085. American Express income and credit approval criteria applies.
Terms and Conditions
- Bonus & Eligibility
200,000 Bonus Membership Rewards® Points are only available to new American Express® Card Members who apply online by 1 October 2024, are approved and spend $5,000 or more on eligible purchases on your new Card in the first 3 months from the Card approval date. Eligible purchases do not include Card fees and charges, for example annual fees, interest, late payment, cash advances, balance transfers, traveller’s cheques and foreign currency conversion. This offer may be withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. Please allow 8-10 weeks for the bonus points to be credited to your Account after the spend criteria has been met. If you are an existing David Jones Card Member and don’t hold or have not held any other American Express Card(s) in the past 18 months, you will be eligible for the offer. All other Card Members who currently hold or who have previously held any Card product issued by American Express Australia Limited in the past 18 months are ineligible for this offer. This advertised offer is not applicable or valid in conjunction with any other advertised or promotional offer. - Membership Rewards Points:
Subject to the Terms and Conditions of the Membership Rewards program available here. To transfer Membership Rewards points into an airline rewards or frequent guest partner program you must be a member of the partner program. Membership of the partner program is the Card Member’s responsibility and is subject to the Terms and Conditions of the applicable program. A joining fee may apply.
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