Some airline perks are generous. Others are so extravagant they eventually become too difficult to defend, as past and present executives at Qantas are now finding out.
As detailed in The Chairman’s Lounge, any Qantas director who fully utilized those entitlements could easily fly more than $500,000 worth of premium travel each year. Children remained eligible until age 26, and retirees continued to receive free flights for as many years after leaving the airline as they had served. In practical terms, that meant former directors and executives could enjoy pointy-end travel for a decade or more after stepping away.
One example cited is Maxine Brenner, who served on the Qantas board from 2013 until 2024. Under the rules, Qantas shareholders would continue subsidizing first and business class flights for her husband, Jodee Rich, until 2034.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on Live and Let's Fly.
