Emirates first class awards restricted to Qantas Silver status and above; minimum age added

all members → Qantas Silver status or higher

Effective February 18, 2026, only Qantas Frequent Flyer members holding Silver status or higher can book Emirates first class Classic Flight Rewards, extending Emirates' own elite-only award policy to a partner program. A related rule effective January 21, 2026 requires all passengers on Emirates first class awards booked with Qantas points to be at least nine years old, even when traveling with an adult. Existing bookings were honored, though changes requiring reissue can trigger the new rules. Before these changes, Qantas points — transferable 1:1 from American Express, Citi, and Capital One — had been one of the easier routes for US members without Emirates status to book Emirates first class.

What to do: Without Qantas status, plan Emirates redemptions in business class or via programs where you hold the required elite tier.