Alitalia (Italian airline) is offering 15% off any flight booked on their website, including Delta and other SkyTeam partner flights through 11:59am US EST (2PM Australian EST Sept 24) on September 24th. This offer is valid to travel anytime from October 1th, 2012 until March 31st, 2013 (last inbound flight).
How does that apply for us Australians? Delta flies to Sydney, which means discount fares between Sydney and the US. Sydney - New York seems to be the best deal. Delta also flies to a number of other destinations including London, Paris etc. but have to fly via the US (probably a bit long). Plug in different destinations to see if they have competitive prices. Sydney is the only city you can use as your Australian origin. Check out Dan's Deals for other sample fares people have received.
Sample fare:
Sydney-New York, Oct 15-Oct 30
Price $ 1527.50
E-coupon $ (229.12)
Total $ 1298.38 USD (1242.11 AUD)
Price includes taxes and carrier-imposed fees.
What everyone else charges:
Google ITA Software - $1453
Adioso - $1570
Skyscanner - $1415
Hipmunk - $1529 via United
Webjet - $1432 via Delta
Qantas $1654
Expedia.ie - €1,173 ($1457)
Sample fare 2, same as above but LAX
1153.03 USD ($1103AUD) Adioso - $1207, Skyscanner - $1253
If the ecoupon doesn't work, you may have either entered dates outside of the promotion ( I did this the first time), or the website is being hammered as this has been posted on a few US sites. Rinse and repeat. They may decide to block discounts on Delta flights as per some comments.
When you purchase a ticket through Alitalia’s U.S. web site, we will allow you to cancel without penalty and receive a full refund within 24 hours after your purchase, if the reservation is made one week or more prior to scheduled flight departure. Cancellations and refunds for qualifying web site purchases may be requested by calling 800-223-5730. A great little fairly new US regulation that gives consumers change of mind rights.
Via [AFF] via [Dan's Deals]
Pretty good deal, and very well researched post! :)
Also, don't forget that Virgin Australia Velocity members can earn status credits and points on Delta, and those holding Velocity Gold status and above also get lounge access, priority check-in/boarding/baggage/screening with Delta.