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HSBC frequent flyer partnership with Star Alliance a 'world first'

Partnering with Star Alliance, HSBC has launched its Star Alliance credit card offering Aussie frequent flyers a new rewards program.

By Staff Writers

First published on 24 Nov 2022

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HSBC frequent flyer partnership with Star Alliance a 'world first'

The partnership between HSBC and Star Alliance, dubbed a world-first, brings together seven major airlines from across the globe.

Star Alliance currently operates as one of the three major global airline alliances, alongside Skyteam and Oneworld - the latter of which Qantas is part.

Aussie consumers can earn Star Alliance Points on eligible Star Alliance Credit Card purchases, to be converted to frequent flyer points across the seven participating Star Alliance frequent flyer programs.

At the time of launch, participants joining the partnership between HSBC and Star Alliance include:

Air Canada – Aeroplan
Air New Zealand – Airpoints
Eva Air – Infinity MilageLands
Singapore Airlines – KrisFlyer
South African Airways – SAA Voyager
Thai – Royal Orchid Plus
United - MileagePlus

HSBC’s Star Alliance credit card operates on the Visa platform, bringing together several airline platforms under one card.

Star Alliance CEO Jeffrey Goh said the group is delighted to launch this industry-first loyalty product together with HSBC and Visa.

“This unique product is an outcome of strategic discussions with our member airlines for the Australian market,” Mr Goh said.

“It will offer a new world of loyalty experience with not only the ability to earn points, but also a fast track to Star Alliance Gold Status through everyday spending.”

HSBC’s Star Alliance Credit Card offers Aussie consumers the ability to fast track to Star Alliance Gold Status in the first year of their account, when they spend $4,000 on eligible purchases within 90 days from card approval.

The data for September revealed the total value of monthly credit card purchases eclipsed pre-COVID levels to reach more than $32 billion in September 2022.

Further as pre-Christmas sales begin to boom, Aussies are forecast to spend $63.9 billion from 14 November to 24 December, with $6.2 billion of that coming over the four-day Black Friday period commencing November 25.

Star Alliance Credit Card Features

Uncapped Star Alliance Points

Customers can earn one Star Alliance point for every $1 spent on eligible purchases, up to $3,000 per statement period. Once the $3,000 limit has been met, customers can earn 0.5 Star Alliance points per $1 spent.

The earning of Star Alliance points is uncapped with points earned transferred to a customer's Star Alliance rewards account monthly.

Book interest-free flights

The partnership offers 0% interest for six months on direct purchases made through Star Alliance airline websites using a HSBC Star Alliance credit card.

Fast track to Star Alliance Gold

Star Alliance Gold Status is earned in the first year of their account when customers spend $4,000 on eligible purchases in the first 90 days from card approval.

Retain Star Alliance status privileges

Earn or retain Star Alliance Gold Status each year when customers spend at least $60,000 on eligible purchases in the previous year. Star Alliance Silver status is earned when customers spend at least $30,000 on eligible purchases in the previous year.

Complimentary travel insurance

The Star Alliance Credit Card offers domestic and international travel insurances with rental vehicle excess insurance in Australia, transit accident insurance, extended warranty insurance, and purchase protection insurance.

HSBC notes cover for claims relating to COVID-19 may be available under selected international travel insurance benefits.

Interest free purchases

Purchases made utilising the Star Alliance Credit Card are eligible for up to 55 days' interest free.

Mobile payments

Apple Pay and Google Pay can be used wherever customers can make contactless purchases, online, and at participating retailers in store.

Additional cardholders

Star Alliance credit cards can be shared across additional cardholders aged 16 years or over without any additional fee.

Star Alliance Credit Card Fees

HSBC notes for a limited time in the first year, the credit card comes with no annual fees before reverting to $450 in subsequent years.

Fees customers may incur when using the Star Alliance Credit Card include:

Cash Advance Fees	The higher of 3% or $4
Interest Rate for Cash Advances	21.99% p.a.
Interest Rate for Purchases	19.99% p.a.
Late Payment Fees	$30
Minimum Credit Limit Offered	$6,000
Overseas Exchange Fees	3%

Star Alliance Credit Card Eligibility

To be eligible to receive a Star Alliance Credit Card, applicants must:

Must be over the age of 18 and be an Australian resident.
Earn at least $75,000 p.a.
Possess a good credit rating.

Documents required for Star Alliance Credit Card applications include:

Identification including a combination of driver’s license, passport and Medicare card.
Residential address details.
Bank statements detailing income and employment.

Image by Pascal Renet via Pexels

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HSBC frequent flyer partnership with Star Alliance a 'world first'