/FINNAIR

Seven new international routes launching from Australia by end of 2026 create fresh award opportunities, especially on fifth freedom segments. Finnair's Melbourne–Bangkok leg (Business/Premium Economy) and Turkish Airlines' Sydney–Singapore leg (Business/Economy) can be booked independently with miles. Air Tahiti Nui adds Sydney–Papeete nonstop (Business/Premium Economy/Economy), and Qantas launches Sydney–Las Vegas (Business/Premium Economy/Economy). Western Sydney routes from Air New Zealand (economy only) and Singapore Airlines (Business/Economy) provide new departure options. These flights begin between October and December 2026, so award space should open soon.

Finnair is running a rare double Avios and tier points promotion on selected routes for travel through March 31, 2027, but you must book between August 18 and 27, 2026. The offer covers all cabins and fare types, including Superlight, and applies to both one-way and round-trip flights. Earnings scale with status: a Platinum member goes from 9 to 18 Avios per euro, while Lumo jumps to 20 per euro. Routes span Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Finland, so if you have planned travel on any of these, this booking window is your only chance to double your mileage and status credits.

Finnair's new Melbourne route from October 2026 opens a $1,386 round-trip economy fare to London. It books into Z class, earning 10,500 Qantas Points and 120 status credits. But this is a restrictive light fare with no checked baggage and no changes. The value is in the points earn for frequent flyers, not the cabin experience.