How to fly to South America with Qantas Points

Direct flight options

There is very little to choose from for trans-Pacific flights between Australia and South America. Availability is predictably limited as a result.

LATAM Airlines

Availability: Poor | Charges: Average | In-flight experience: Good | Stops: 0

LATAM is a Qantas partner airline and the only option if you want to fly non-stop from Australia to South America (Santiago in Chile to be precise). Booking a points seat from Sydney can be very difficult, although better availability can be found out of Melbourne. LATAM's in-flight experience is quite good, and although it's not up to Middle Eastern standards, the shorter flight duration more than makes up for it. You can use Qantas Points to fly to most major cities in South and Central America with LATAM.

Multi-stop flight options

There are no easy or fast ways to get to South America when you can't fly directly, especially if it involves a Middle East carrier.

American Airlines

Availability: Good | Charges: Low | In-flight experience: Good | Stops: 1

American Airlines is a great option for those looking for an airline with good availability and low charges. The in-flight experience is good, with comfortable seating and friendly service. Plus, with just one stop and connecting flights to cities throughout South America, it's a great option for those looking to minimise layovers.

Qatar Airways

Availability: Good | Charges: Low | In-flight experience: Excellent | Stops: 1

You'll be thankful of Qatar's incredible Business and First Class cabins since flying to South America with them is somewhat of a marathon. Qatar Airways have had consistently good availability and their airline charges have stayed low, especially in comparison with Emirates. Their in-flight products, food, and service are of the highest standards.

Emirates

Availability: Good | Charges: High | In-flight experience: Excellent | Stops: 1

Points seat availability to Dubai from Australia is generally quite open, but it can be tight from Dubai to South America. Emirates' in-flight experience sets this airline apart, especially if you are flying Business or First Class on their A380. However, if you find a seat, be prepared for your bank account to take a solid hit, courtesy of their depressingly high charges.

British Airways

Availability: Poor | Charges: High | In-flight experience: Average | Stops: 2

Although it probably won't top anybody's list for convenience, you can use Qantas Points to fly to several South American destinations with British Airways via Singapore and London. It's not going to be the fastest option, but an option it is, nevertheless. With availability often tight on the Sydney to Singapore segment, just booking this is an achievement. And it won't come cheap. Unlike their in-flight product, which improved with the introduction of Club Suite, British Airways don't skimp on taxes and charges. Service is notoriously hit-or-miss.

Summary