Air Canada has announced a major update to its Aeroplan loyalty program, changing how members earn points and qualify for elite status. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, casual traveler, or Aeroplan credit card holder, this update significantly impacts how you engage with the program.
Here’s everything you need to know about the changes and how to maximize your travel rewards under the updated Aeroplan system.
What’s Changing?
From Distance-Based to Spend-Based Earning
Aeroplan members now earn points based on the amount spent on flights rather than the distance flown. This means that instead of earning points for flying a certain number of miles, points are awarded based on how much money you spend on your ticket.
Example: A traveler who spends $600 on a short-haul business class flight will now earn more points than someone who spends $200 on a long-haul basic economy fare.
Why the Change?
This update aligns Aeroplan with global airline loyalty programs that reward spending over distance. The idea is to better recognize and reward travelers who contribute more revenue to the airline, particularly those in higher fare classes.
This shift benefits:
- Travelers in business or premium economy
- Passengers booking flexible or last-minute fares
- High spenders on both short and long-haul flights
Status Qualifying Credits (SQC): A New Way to Reach Elite Status
Aeroplan now uses Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) to determine elite status. This replaces the older system based on flight segments and miles.
How SQCs Work:
- You earn 1 SQC for every CA$100 spent on eligible base fares.
- SQCs apply to flights with Air Canada and select partner airlines.
- A specific number of SQCs is required to reach different elite tiers, such as 25K, 35K, or 50K.
What Counts Toward SQCs?
- Only the base fare counts — taxes, surcharges, and government fees are excluded.
- SQCs can be earned on eligible flights operated by Star Alliance partners and select affiliates.
- Bonus SQCs may also be offered through promotions or bundled services like vacation packages or seat upgrades.
Can You Earn SQCs Through Aeroplan Credit Cards?
Yes. Several co-branded Aeroplan credit cards offer opportunities to earn SQCs through spending. These cards are especially beneficial for travelers who want to reach or maintain elite status without relying entirely on flying.
Features to Look For:
- Bonus SQCs for meeting annual spending thresholds
- Monthly or yearly rollover SQCs
- Accelerated earning on Air Canada purchases
Recommended Cards:
- American Express Aeroplan Reserve
- TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege
- CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege
Always check with the issuing bank for the latest card benefits.
Is the New Aeroplan More Rewarding for Business Travelers?
Yes, the new earning structure favors travelers who spend more, especially those flying in business class or on flexible fares. Under the spend-based model, high spenders accumulate more points and SQCs per trip, even if the flight distance is short.
This change:
- Makes elite status more accessible to corporate travelers
- Provides better rewards for premium cabin bookings
- Encourages direct booking through Air Canada channels
What About Aeroplan Promotions and Partners?
The Aeroplan program continues to offer numerous ways to earn points through travel and non-travel partners. These include hotels, car rentals, credit card purchases, retail shopping, and more.
Promotions and Bonuses
Aeroplan frequently runs promotions such as:
- Double or triple points on certain routes or during special campaigns
- Bonus SQCs for limited-time offers
- Accelerated earnings on strategic partner bookings
Travelers should also look out for exclusions, especially when booking through third-party platforms or partner airlines. Not all tickets may qualify for full SQCs or base point earnings.
People Also Ask
What are Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) in Aeroplan?
Status Qualifying Credits are a new metric for determining Aeroplan elite status. Members earn 1 SQC per CA$100 spent on base fares with eligible airlines.
Do Aeroplan Elite members get more points per dollar?
Yes. Elite status members receive bonus Aeroplan points per dollar spent. The multiplier increases with higher tiers, offering up to 75% more points.
Will Aeroplan earn points on dollars spent instead of distance?
Yes. Points are now awarded based on the amount spent on the base fare of your ticket, not the distance traveled.
What You Should Do Now
To make the most of the updated Aeroplan program, consider the following steps:
- Review your travel patterns. Understand how much you typically spend on fares, not just how far you fly.
- Upgrade your Aeroplan credit card. Choose a card that helps you earn SQCs and bonus points faster.
- Book directly with Air Canada or eligible partners to ensure full point and status credit.
- Monitor promotions and seasonal offers to boost your points and SQC balance.
Final Thoughts
Aeroplan’s updated earning model reflects a modern, spend-based approach to loyalty rewards. While it may require a mindset shift for budget-conscious travelers, the program is now more transparent, rewarding, and easier to track for those who prioritize value and convenience.
By focusing on spending habits and using the right credit card tools, Aeroplan members can continue to unlock meaningful travel rewards and achieve elite status faster.
