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American Express and Velocity Frequent Flyer have just introduced enhanced benefits for their co-branded credit cards, aimed at making travel with Virgin Australia even more rewarding for cardholders. With new features tailored to provide more significant points-earning potential, complimentary lounge access, and travel perks, these cards offer an unmatched experience for Australian travellers keen to maximize their rewards.

This launch includes two upgraded credit cards, the American Express® Velocity Platinum Card and the American Express® Velocity Escape Plus Card. Each is designed with unique features to meet the diverse needs of frequent flyers.

Key Benefits of the American Express® Velocity Platinum Card

The American Express® Velocity Platinum Card has been revamped to cater to regular Velocity Frequent Flyer members, particularly those who prioritize exclusive perks while travelling. In addition, cardholders enrolled in the program will now enjoy unrestricted annual access to Virgin Australia lounges when flying domestically from airports with a Virgin Australia Lounge. This new feature is a substantial upgrade that provides a relaxing travel experience with amenities that enrich the overall journey.

Virgin AU Lounge

The card also offers enhanced opportunities for cardholders to climb the Velocity Frequent Flyer status ladder, thanks to an innovative Velocity Status Credits boost. Cardholders who reach a spending milestone of AUD 25,000 in a calendar year will earn 50 Status Credits, with another 50 Credits awarded upon spending AUD 50,000. This makes unlocking premium perks and higher status levels within the Velocity program more accessible.

Additionally, the Platinum Card maintains its existing array of attractive features, such as:

A complimentary Virgin Australia domestic return economy flight every year
1.25 Velocity Points per dollar on everyday spending
2.25 Velocity Points per dollar on Virgin Australia purchases
No cap on the number of points that can be earned

This combination of travel benefits and increased Velocity Points earning potential positions the American Express® Velocity Platinum Card as a leading choice for frequent flyers looking for premium value. The card’s annual fee is AUD 440, aligning with its high-end benefits.

Updates to the American Express® Velocity Escape Plus Card

Amex Velocity Escape Plus AU.

The American Express® Velocity Escape Plus Card has also been enhanced for travellers who prefer a lower-fee option without sacrificing rewards. Cardholders now earn points faster, with 1 Velocity Point per dollar on everyday spending up to 12,000 points each year, after which the rate reverts to 0.75 Points per dollar. This is an upgrade from the previous earning rate of 0.75 Points per dollar, giving cardholders greater rewards for their daily expenses.

Furthermore, cardholders enrolled in the program will benefit from an annual $50 statement credit when they spend $50 or more with Virgin Australia. This feature not only helps offset travel costs but also provides an incentive for those considering Virgin Australia as their preferred airline. The Escape Plus Card has a modest annual fee of AUD 95, making it accessible to many consumers.

Added Perks and Payment Flexibility

Both cards come with comprehensive complimentary travel insurance for domestic and international bookings made with the card, adding peace of mind for travellers. Additionally, the American Express Plan It® feature enables cardholders to split large purchases into equal monthly instalments for a fixed fee, enhancing payment flexibility.

Executive Insights: American Express and Velocity Leaders Speak

Liana Kohn-Gardner, Vice President of Loyalty and Partnerships at American Express, emphasized the importance of the partnership with Velocity Frequent Flyer. “For over a decade, Velocity and American Express have joined forces to create a rewarding experience for people wanting more from their credit card. Australians love traveling and earning points to offset the cost. Now, through these new benefits, it’s even more rewarding to travel. With summer right around the corner, it’s a great time to hold an American Express Velocity credit card to get you closer to your next holiday,” she said.

Nick Rohrlach, CEO of Velocity Frequent Flyer, shared similar enthusiasm. “Our partnership with American Express is key to making travel more rewarding for our members. With benefits like unlimited access to Virgin Australia lounges and increased points earning through everyday spending, members can maximize their travel experiences and boost their points balance.”

To demonstrate the value of the Velocity Points system, Rohrlach noted that 5,900 points can cover a one-way domestic flight from Sydney to Byron Bay, while 35,500 points can secure a one-way business class trip from Sydney to Queenstown. These examples underscore how Velocity Points can transform trips into cost-effective experiences for frequent flyers.

Conclusion: Travel Rewards Just Got Better

With these enhancements, American Express and Velocity Frequent Flyer have delivered a compelling value proposition for Australian travellers. The refreshed American Express® Velocity Platinum and Escape Plus cards empower members with easier access to exclusive travel benefits and more effective ways to accumulate points, making each journey with Virgin Australia more enjoyable and rewarding. Whether through free flights, lounge access, or status upgrades, cardholders now have more reasons than ever to reach for their American Express Velocity cards.

For more information on these cards and how to apply, visit the American Express website or the Velocity Frequent Flyer program page.