Velocity Members Can Now Use Points for Onboard Purchases

Virgin Australia has unveiled a convenient new way for its loyalty members to get more value out of their rewards. With the introduction of the Pay with Points feature, members of the Velocity Frequent Flyer program can now use their points to cover the cost of food and drinks purchased in the air. This new redemption option is now active on select domestic and short-haul international flights, turning your in-flight snack into an instant reward.

How to Use Velocity Points for Onboard Purchases

The process is designed to be seamless and happens after your flight, so you don't have to slow down the cabin crew or fumble with an app mid-air. Here’s how it works:

1. Link Your Card: Before you fly, you must link an eligible Visa credit or debit card to your account through the Velocity app. This is a one-time setup that enables the feature.

2. Buy Onboard: When you’re on a participating Virgin Australia flight, simply use that same linked Visa card to pay for items from the onboard menu. The transaction is processed like any normal credit or debit card purchase.

3. Get a Post-Flight Prompt: After you land, you'll receive a notification from the Velocity app asking if you'd like to use your points to cover that purchase.

4. Confirm and Get Credited: If you choose to "Pay with Points," the corresponding number of points will be deducted from your account. You will then receive a statement credit for the purchase amount back to your Visa card within 2 to 10 business days.

Benefits for Frequent Flyers

This feature introduces a new level of flexibility for redeeming rewards, especially for members who may not have enough points for a flight or upgrade.

• More Control Over Your Points: It provides a practical, everyday use for your Velocity Points, giving you another way to unlock value from the program.

• Simple and Hassle-Free: The process is straightforward with no hidden fees or complicated steps. Since the redemption happens after the flight, it doesn't add complexity to your travel day.

• An Alternative to Major Rewards: While redeeming for flights often yields the highest value—sometimes up to three cents per point—this option is perfect for using smaller point balances that might otherwise go unused.

• Enhances the In-Flight Experience: Being able to treat yourself to a snack or drink without spending cash makes the journey itself feel more rewarding.

Availability and Future Plans

Currently, the Pay with Points feature is available on select Virgin Australia-operated domestic and short-haul international flights. This includes services departing from major hubs like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast. Virgin Australia has announced plans to expand the feature to more flights over time, with the goal of eventually including longer international routes.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The ability to use Velocity Points for onboard food and drinks is a welcome addition for members, making the loyalty program more valuable for everyday travelers. It offers a simple and practical way to get immediate benefits from your points balance, no matter how small.

To take advantage of this new feature on your next trip, the first step is to open your Velocity app and link an eligible Visa card to your account.