We took out a BMI credit card for the air miles and have 23,000 of them. We rang BMI to arrange a trip to Amsterdam and were told a direct flight would be from Heathrow. We live in the Midlands, so Birmingham would have been better, but we felt we could afford the extra petrol as our flights would be free.

Having agreed the flights, we were told this would cost us 18,000 air miles and £102pp in taxes. Online, we can fly for £78pp, including taxes. I was then told I should choose a flight with lower taxes. I asked where, only to be advised: “Europe.” Isn’t that where Amsterdam is? Stephen Phillips, Cleobury Mortimer

BMI replies:“Air miles can be redeemed on BMI and partner airlines, subject to seat availability and payment of taxes and charges as per terms and conditions. On November 1, we removed all fuel surcharges from domestic and European flights, so passengers now only pay the applicable airport fees and government taxes.”

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