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Air Canada Aeroplan is one of those rare loyalty programs that rewards both casual travelers and hardcore points nerds — but only if you understand the rules. Between partner redemptions across nearly 50 airlines, a mix of fixed and dynamic pricing, stopovers, family sharing, and credit card sweeteners, Aeroplan offers a lot of value … but with a lot of complexity.

In this guide to Aeroplan, we’ll walk through the basics before getting into the fun stuff: the best ways to earn points, how Aeroplan’s award charts actually work, where the sweet spots still live, and what to know about fees, stopovers, infants, and elite status.

Here’s how to get the most from Aeroplan.

Overview of Air Canada

Air Canada is a storied airline with a history dating back to 1937, when it launched as Trans-Canada Air Lines. Sixty years later, it became one of the five founding members of Star Alliance.

Air Canada’s primary hubs are Toronto (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), and Montreal (YUL). Today, the Montreal-based carrier and its subsidiaries operate a combined fleet of more than 400 aircraft, serving 180-plus destinations across six continents.

Air Canada route map.
Air Canada route map. Screenshot of FlightConnections.com

Air Canada’s Aeroplan loyalty program is a fan favorite thanks to its highly versatile points, which can be redeemed for travel on 50-plus partner airlines. Most recently, the program underwent an overhaul and shifted to a revenue-based earning model.

Air Canada Aeroplan Program Rules

Anyone can join the Air Canada Aeroplan loyalty program for free by signing up through the airline’s website or mobile app. Adults can complete the process entirely online and may also create an account for a child, as long as the email address isn’t already associated with another Aeroplan account.

Air Canada Aeroplan Join Banner
Screenshot of Air Canada

Once you've created your new loyalty program account, make sure to link it to your AwardWallet account. Don't have an AwardWallet account yet? Sign up for free and track unlimited rewards programs and travel plans.

Aeroplan points expiration rules

Aeroplan points expire after 18 consecutive months of inactivity — defined as no earning or redemption activity. However, Air Canada has suspended point expiration through November 30, 2026.

To reset the expiration clock, you can:

  • Transfer points from eligible credit card programs
  • Credit an Air Canada or Star Alliance flight to Aeroplan
  • Shop through the airline’s portal
  • Earn points through other eligible activities
Tail fin of an Air Canada plane
Credit: Air Canada

Flight crediting

When crediting flights to Aeroplan, miles can only be earned in the traveler’s own account. You can’t credit flights taken by multiple family members to a single account — each traveler must have their own Aeroplan account and loyalty number attached to their ticket.

Family sharing

Air Canada offers a family sharing feature that allows up to eight members to join a group while maintaining their own individual Aeroplan accounts. All points earned by members — including existing balances — are pooled into a shared account.

Only designated members of the family sharing group have redemption privileges and can book awards using the shared balance. If the group includes an eligible Aeroplan credit cardholder, preferred pricing applies to awards booked from the shared pool.

Related: Which Rewards Programs Let You Pool Points and Miles With Others for Free?

How To Earn Aeroplan Points

The most straightforward way to earn Aeroplan points is by flying on Air Canada or one of its many partner airlines. You can also increase your Aeroplan point balance in several ways, including:

  • Spending on an Air Canada co-branded credit card
  • Converting transferable credit card rewards to Aeroplan points
  • Transferring hotel points to Aeroplan
  • Earning through shopping portals
  • Purchasing points
  • Other eligible earning activities

Earning points by flying Air Canada

As we already mentioned, the Aeroplan program recently received a major overhaul. Previously, you earned points and Status Qualifying Miles as a percentage of miles flown. For flights departing on or after January 1, 2026, you earn points based on the Canadian dollars spent on your ticket.

Elite members earn a multiplier on base earnings. Earning rates per CA$1 spent are as follows:

  • Aeroplan member: 1 point
  • Aeroplan 25K: 2 points
  • Aeroplan 35K: 3 points
  • Aeroplan 50K: 4 points
  • Aeroplan 75K: 5 points
  • Aeroplan Super Elite: 6 points

These rates apply to eligible Air Canada flights. Points are earned on the base fare and carrier-imposed surcharges, excluding taxes and fees.

Earning points by flying partner airlines

Here's where it starts to get a little confusing. If you fly with a partner airline but your ticket is issued by Air Canada (ticket number starting with 014), you’ll earn points based on your ticket cost using the rates above. If your flight is ticketed by another airline but credited to Aeroplan, you’ll earn points as a percentage of the miles flown.

Air Canada partners with dozens of airlines, each with a unique earning structure. There's also a handful of airlines that don't award Status Qualifying Credits, so it's worth checking each individual carrier's spotlight page before booking to avoid any surprises, especially if you're trying to earn elite status.

Related: How To Credit Airline Miles to Partner Frequent Flyer Programs

Air Canada credit cards

United States residents have one option for an Air Canada co-branded card: the Chase Air Canada Aeroplan® Credit Card (Rates & Fees). With a $195 annual fee, the card can be a valuable addition for those looking to earn Aeroplan points.

Cardholders earn up to 5X total points for each dollar spent on Air Canada. Earn 3X points on travel purchases. Earn 2X points for each dollar spent at grocery stores, on dining at restaurants, and at gas stations. Earn 1X point for each dollar spent on all other purchases..

New applicants for the Aeroplan Card can take advantage of a welcome offer worth up to 115,000 bonus points – 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open, plus 40,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 in the first 12 months your account is open.

Chase Air Canada Aeroplan® Credit Card
Chase Air Canada Aeroplan® Credit Card
Welcome Bonus Our Best Offer Ever: Earn up to 115,000 bonus points. Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, 40,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 in the first 12 months your account is open.
Chase Air Canada Aeroplan® Credit Card
Welcome Bonus Our Best Offer Ever: Earn up to 115,000 bonus points. Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, 40,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 in the first 12 months your account is open.
Annual Fee:$195
Show moreWhy We Like ItHighlightsEarning Rates
The Chase Air Canada Aeroplan® Credit Card earns up to 5x points on Air Canada direct purchases. Cardholders receive 500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month (up to 1,500 points per month), and earn a 10% bonus on Chase Ultimate Rewards point transfers to Aeroplan, both through December 31, 2026, enhancing point value. The card includes a free first checked bag for up to eight people on the same reservation, no foreign transaction fees, and a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck®/NEXUS fee credit.
  • Earn up to 115,000 bonus points
  • Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, 40,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 in the first 12 months.
  • $195 Annual Fee
  • Enjoy automatic 25K Aeroplan Status with benefits such as Priority Check-In, Priority Boarding (Zone 2), Additional Baggage Allowance, Star Alliance Recognition and eUpgrade Credits.
  • Earn up to 5X total points for each dollar spent on Air Canada. Earn 3X points on travel purchases.
  • Earn 2X points for each dollar spent at grocery stores, on dining at restaurants, and at gas stations. Earn 1X point for each dollar spent on all other purchases.
  • Up to $100 in Air Canada statement credits (delivered as up to two $50 credits semi-annually).
  • Save 15% on eligible Air Canada flight redemptions as a cardmember.
  • Member FDIC
  • Up to 5x points directly with Air Canada*
  • 3x points on travel purchases
  • 2x points on dining, including takeout and eligible delivery services
  • 2x points at grocery stores
  • 2x points at gas stations
  • 1x point on all other purchases
*3x points on Air Canada purchases plus an additional 2x points from Air Canada on eligible flights when traveling as an Aeroplan 25K member

Related: Aeroplan Card Full Review

Those residing in Canada have several personal Air Canada co-branded credit card options, including cards issued by TD and CIBC.

Other credit cards that earn Aeroplan points

Beyond the Aeroplan Card, you can also earn Aeroplan points by earning and transferring rewards from credit cards that partner with the program. About two dozen credit cards earn points that are transferable to Aeroplan, including options from American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Capital One miles, and Bilt Points.

From
To
Transfer Ratio
Min.Transfer
Average Time
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
1,000:1,000
-
Immediate
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
1,000:1,000
-
Unknown
Capital One
United States
➔
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
100:100
1,000
Immediate
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
1,000:1,000
-
47 minutes
Barclaycard
United States
➔
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
8,500:5,000
-
Unknown
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
1,000:1,000
2,000
Unknown

That means you can earn transferable points that transfer to Aeroplan through the following cards:

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Welcome Bonus Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Annual Fee

$95Rates & Fees

Credit Score

Excellent, Good

  • 5X points on Lyft rides through September 2027
  • 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
  • 3X points on dining at restaurants worldwide
  • 3X points on gas and EV charging
  • 3X points on vacation homes at top brands like Airbnb, Vrbo and more
  • 3X points on eligible streaming services
  • 3X points on online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs)
  • 2X points on all other travel
  • 1X point per dollar spent on all other purchases
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Limited-Time Offer Earn more than $1,000 in Travel Bonuses with a limited-time $300 Capital One Travel stays credit, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening—that's more than $1,000 in travel value.
Annual Fee

$95

Credit Score

Excellent, Good

  • 5X miles per dollar on purchases through Capital One Entertainment
  • 5X miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • 2X miles per dollar on all other purchases
American Express® Gold Card
American Express® Gold Card
Welcome Offer Find Out Your Offer. You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
Annual Fee

$325Rates & Fees
(Terms apply)

Credit Score

Excellent, Good

  • 4X Membership Rewards® points at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S. (on up to $50,000 per year in purchases, then 1X)
  • 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X)
  • 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com
  • 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com
  • 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through amextravel.com
  • 2X Membership Rewards® points on cruises booked and paid through amextravel.com
  • 1X on other eligible purchases

Hotel partners

Air Canada partners with 12 hotel groups, allowing members to earn Aeroplan points after completing a qualifying stay. Participating brands include major programs such as Marriott, IHG, and Hilton, as well as a selection of independent hotels.

Earning requirements vary by brand, so it’s important to follow the instructions outlined on Air Canada’s travel partner page.

Air Canada hotel partners.
Screenshot of Air Canada

While not generally recommended due to poor transfer ratios, some hotel programs also allow you to convert hotel points into Aeroplan points.

From
To
Transfer Ratio
Min.Transfer
Average Time
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
3:1
3,000
4 days - 5 days
Accor Group (ALL - Accor Live Limitless)
➔
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
4,000:2,000
-
Unknown
Best Western (Rewards)
➔
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
5,000:1,000
-
Unknown
Choice Hotels (Choice Privileges)
➔
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
1,000:200
5,000
Unknown
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
10,000:1,000
-
Unknown
Hyatt (World of Hyatt)
➔
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
1,000:500
5,000
Unknown
IHG Hotels & Resorts (One Rewards)
➔
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
10,000:2,000
-
Unknown
Shangri-La (Circle)
➔
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
500:500
1,000
Unknown
Wyndham Rewards
➔
➔
Air Canada (Aeroplan)
6,000:1,200
-
Unknown

Earn Aeroplan points with Air Canada's travel partners

When it comes to travel-related purchases, Air Canada also offers Aeroplan points for rental cars, airport parking, and other services through partners like Avis, Budget, and Park'N Fly.

You can also earn points by purchasing a vacation package, reserving a hotel, booking a cruise, and more through Air Canada's travel portal.

Air Canada Aeroplan shopping portal

Like most airlines, Air Canada operates a shopping portal that awards Aeroplan points on purchases at select retailers.

Aeroplan Elite Status members earn even more on Aeroplan eStore purchases, currently receiving an extra 2 points per dollar spent in addition to the base earning rate shown for each retailer.

One important caveat: Merchandise can only be shipped to Canadian addresses. Gift cards are the primary exception, although most are issued in Canadian dollars and can only be used within Canada.

If you plan to shop through Air Canada’s portal, review the fine print before completing a purchase.

The Air Canada eStore featured shopping
Screenshot of Air Canada

Earn miles through Starbucks and Uber purchases

Air Canada partners with Starbucks and Uber, allowing members to earn Aeroplan points on rides and purchases at the coffee chain. However, only Canadian residents can link accounts and earn rewards.

Buying Aeroplan points

Aeroplan points are available for outright purchase through the airline's Points.com storefront. In the right circumstances, purchasing points can make sense — like when you need to top off your account for a specific redemption or when the points price of a flight is lower than the cash cost.

When Air Canada isn’t running a promotion, points typically cost 3.75 Canadian cents per point (about 2.67 U.S. cents per point). Periodically, the airline offers bonuses or discounts — sometimes as high as 75% or 100% — that can significantly improve the value. Historically, points have been available for as little as 1.13 U.S. cents each.

Given that AwardWallet users receive an average value of 1.86¢ per point, buying points during a promotion can make sense.

You can purchase up to 250,000 Aeroplan points per transaction, with an annual purchase limit of 1,000,000 points per calendar year.

Aeroplan point storefront
Screenshot of Points.com

Can you transfer Aeroplan points to other people?

Air Canada allows Aeroplan points to be transferred between member accounts for a fee of 2 Canadian cents per point (about 1.44 U.S. cents per point). Transfers are capped at 250,000 points per transaction and 500,000 points per calendar year.

However, we don't recommend utilizing this option. Frequently, Aeroplan offers buy points promotions selling points for around this same price.

Air Canada transfer point window
Screenshot of Air Canada

Redeeming Air Canada Aeroplan Points

Here’s everything you need to know (and then some) about redeeming Air Canada Aeroplan points.

Value of Aeroplan points

In recent redemptions, AwardWallet users have obtained an average value of 1.86¢ per point when redeeming Air Canada Aeroplan points. However, Aeroplan points are more valuable for certain redemptions than others, as you'll see when looking at the average value by flight type below:

  • Short-haul economy/premium economy: 1.21¢
  • Short-haul business/first class: 2.56¢
  • Long-haul economy/premium economy: 1.27¢
  • Long-haul business/first class: 2.63¢

Air Canada partners and award charts

One of Aeroplan’s biggest strengths is how broadly those points can be used. The program offers access to a deep roster of airline partners, spanning Star Alliance members and a wide range of non-alliance carriers.

Aeroplan uses a hybrid zone-and-distance award chart rather than a purely zone-based system. Awards on Air Canada and select partner airlines (such as United) are priced dynamically, eliminating many former sweet spots. That said, fixed award pricing still applies to most partners, and you can still find value in the program.

Check out our complete guide to Air Canada's 50-plus airline partners to learn more about individual airlines and redemption opportunities.

Related: Here's How Much You'll Pay When Redeeming Aeroplan Points for Emirates Flights

Preferred pricing

On Air Canada-operated flights, you can access preferred pricing or award discounts as you engage more with the Aeroplan program. Holding elite status or an Aeroplan co-branded credit card (or both) is an easy way to reduce award costs.

As part of the recent Aeroplan Card revamp, Air Canada retired “preferred pricing” for a 15% award discount on awards including at least one flight on Air Canada.

Points + Cash awards

If you’re short on Aeroplan points — or simply don’t want to use your entire balance — Air Canada offers a Points + Cash booking option. There are two ways to use this feature, along with different options for covering taxes and fees:

  • Award tickets paid for completely with points: Applicable taxes, fees and surcharges may be paid wholly in points or cash
  • Award tickets paid for with a combination of points and cash: Applicable taxes, fees and surcharges must be paid wholly in cash
Air Canada flight summary page for a flight from SFO to NYC
Screenshot of Air Canada

The points value varies by route, so it’s worth running the numbers before selecting a Points + Cash option. In this example, saving CA$46.80 (about $34) requires an additional 4,680 points — yielding roughly 0.7 cents per point, which is generally poor value.

How to search for Air Canada Aeroplan awards

The easiest way to search for Aeroplan awards is through aircanada.com or the airline’s mobile app. After logging in to your account, navigate to the booking widget and select “Book with Aeroplan points.” Enter your origin, destination, travel dates, and number of passengers, then click “Search.” You can filter results by stops, carriers, connecting airports, and more.

If you’re targeting a specific partner award — such as Turkish Airlines business class or Lufthansa first class — a reliable way to check availability is to use Seats.aero. Rather than scrolling through dates, Seats.aero shows what’s available and when.

Air Canada search results for New York to Istanbul
Screenshot of Air Canada

Another way to check award availability is to use tools from other Star Alliance carriers, such as United’s award calendar. Because Aeroplan doesn’t offer a 30-day pricing view, this approach can help narrow down dates before returning to Air Canada to complete the booking.

For non-alliance partner awards, it’s worth checking third-party tools for availability and then confirming whether that space appears on Aeroplan’s website. Smaller carriers, such as PAL Airlines, may require extra patience, as award space can be limited and may not appear on other airlines’ or third-party search tools.

Air Canada search result for Halifax to Goose Bay
Screenshot of Air Canada

Related: How To Find Partner Award Flight Availability

Booking fees and other rules

Award bookings can be made for free at aircanada.com or for a nonrefundable fee of CA$30 (about $21) through the Aeroplan contact center. Air Canada also charges a CA$39 (about $28) fee per ticket for awards that include travel on a carrier other than Air Canada or its subsidiaries. Applicable taxes are charged in addition to the CA$39 fee.

Aeroplan awards can be changed or canceled up to two hours before departure, though fees often apply unless you booked a flexible award or hold an eligible tier of elite status.

Air Canada's change and cancellation fee structure is extremely complicated. It depends on the cabin, fare class, operating airline, and region. Luckily, Air Canada offers a helpful tool so you can know exactly what you'll pay, if anything, for changes and cancellations.

Infant policy

Children under two may travel as a lap infant but still require their own tickets. There’s no cost to ticket a lap infant on Aeroplan award travel within Canada or between Canada and the United States, although applicable taxes and fees may apply. On other international itineraries, you'll pay a discounted fare of CA$25 or 2,500 points per direction of travel.

Children over the age of two must have their own seat and award reservation. You can view the full slate of fees and policies of traveling with children here.

Stopovers

Air Canada allows stopovers on Aeroplan award tickets, though several rules apply:

  • You're allowed one stopover per direction of travel
  • Stopovers are only permitted for Aeroplan award travel outside of Canada and the United States
  • Each stopover costs 5,000 Aeroplan points, in addition to the base award price
  • Stopovers cannot exceed 45 days

Related: How To Book Aeroplan Stopovers Online

Best ways to redeem Air Canada Aeroplan points

With a bevy of partner airlines, there are thousands of potential awards you can book with Aeroplan points. While this isn’t an exhaustive list of every sweet spot, here are a few high-quality ways to redeem your hard-earned points:

  • Fly Lufthansa business class from New York (JFK) to Frankfurt (FRA)
Air Canada award search result for flight from JFK to FRA operated by Lufthansa
Screenshot of Air Canada
  • Oman Air business class from Asia to Europe
Air Canada award search results for flight from KUL to FRA operated by Oman Air
Screenshot of Air Canada
  • Swiss International Air Lines from San Francisco (SFO) to Zurich (ZRH)
Air Canada award search results displaying a flight from SFO to ZRH operated by Swiss International Air Lines
Screenshot of Air Canada
  • Short-haul U.S. domestic flights under 500 miles for 10,000 points
Air Canada award search results displaying a flight from SFO to LAX operated by United
Screenshot of Air Canada

Related: The Secret Sweet Spots of Aeroplan Stopovers and Open Jaws

Other ways to redeem Aeroplan points

Outside of air travel, you can redeem Aeroplan points for hotels, gift cards, and other options. Here’s a look at what’s available:

The Air Canada eStore featuring various ways to spend your Aeroplan points.
Screenshot of Air Canada

However, most non-flight redemptions offer poor value for Aeroplan points. In nearly every case, points are worth significantly more when redeemed for award flights.

How To Earn Air Canada Aeroplan Elite Status

Air Canada offers five tiers of elite status that you can earn to elevate your travel experience: Aeroplan 25K, 35K, 50K, 75K, and Super Elite.

Aeroplan elite status membership cards
Credit: Air Canada

Air Canada elite status qualification

As part of Air Canada’s most recent update, earning elite status is now simpler. The program eliminated Status Qualifying Miles, Segments, and Dollars in favor of a single metric: Status Qualifying Credits. SQCs are based on how much you spend on eligible flights and the fare type purchased.

Here's how much you'll earn:

  • Economy Basic fares aren't eligible to earn SQCs.
  • Economy Flex fares or higher: 4 SQCs per $1 spent
  • Economy Standard fares and eUpgrade Add-Ons: 2 SQCs per $1 spent
  • Air Canada Vacations package: 1 SQC per $1 spent

To earn SQCs, your flight must be ticketed by Air Canada (ticket number beginning with 014) and operated by Air Canada or a Star Alliance partner. If your flight is operated by a non–Star Alliance partner, you won’t earn SQCs — even if it’s ticketed by Air Canada.

If your flight is operated by Air Canada but not ticketed by the airline, SQCs are earned based on cabin class:

  • Economy: 2 SQCs per $1 spent
  • Premium economy and business: 4 SQCs per $1 spent

If your flight is operated by a Star Alliance member airline but not ticketed by Air Canada, you’ll earn 1 SQC for every 5 Aeroplan points earned based on distance flown. This earning method is capped at 25,000 SQCs per calendar year.

Close-up photo of an Air Canada 787 Dreamliner.
Credit: Marko Pavlichenko/Unsplash

Outside of flying, there are a few other ways to earn SQCs:

  • 1 SQC for every 5 Aeroplan points you earn with 40-plus travel and everyday partners, up to 25,000 SQCs per year
  • 1,000 SQCs for every $5,000 you spend on an Aeroplan premium credit card*
  • 1,000 SQCs for every $20,000 spent on an Aeroplan core credit card*

*You can earn up to 25,000 SQCs via Aeroplan credit card spending each year. This is in total across all Aeroplan credit cards, and is valid for Canadian cards.

For Chase Air Canada Aeroplan® Credit Card holders, you will receive the following SQC benefits:

  • 5,000 SQCs as a bonus each year
  • 10,000 SQCs when you spend $25,000 on your card
  • 10,000 SQCs when you spend $50,000 on your card

New cardmembers still receive Aeroplan 25K status through the end of the following calendar year. To retain that status, you’ll need to spend $15,000 in a calendar year. Reaching Aeroplan 35K requires $75,000 in annual card spending.

With the metrics top of mind, here are the qualification requirements for each tier of Aeroplan status:

  • Aeroplan 25K: 25,000 SQCs OR 100,000 EDQ
  • Aeroplan 35K: 35,000 SQCs
  • Aeroplan 50K: 50,000 SQCs
  • Aeroplan 75K: 75,000 SQCs
  • Aeroplan Super Elite: 125,000 SQCs

If you noticed the EDQ option for Aeroplan 25K, it refers to Everyday Status Qualification dollars. EDQs can be earned without stepping on a plane — for example, through eStore purchases, on all Air Canada flights, and by earning 1 EDQ for every eligible point earned on a co-branded credit card.

The Air Canada status qualification year runs from January 1 through December 31, giving you the full calendar year to earn status that’s valid through the end of the following year.

Air Canada Aeroplan elite status core benefits

Aeroplan elite status provides frequent flyers with a range of core perks. From free checked bags to eUpgrades and lounge access, earning Air Canada elite status can be well worth it. Here’s a rundown of the benefits available to Aeroplan elites.

BenefitAeroplan 25KAeroplan 35KAeroplan 50KAeroplan 75KSuper Elite
Priority airport check-inWhen flying with Air CanadaWhen flying with Air CanadaWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partnersWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partnersWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partners
Priority airport standbyWhen flying with Air CanadaWhen flying with Air CanadaWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partnersWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partnersWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partners
Priority security clearanceN/AYesYesYesYes
Priority boardingWhen flying with Air CanadaWhen flying with Air CanadaWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partnersWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partnersWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partners
Priority baggage handlingN/AWhen flying with Air CanadaWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partnersWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partnersWhen flying with Air Canada or Star Alliance partners
Air Canada Concierge ServiceN/AN/AN/AN/AYes
Complimentary checked baggage2 bags, 23 kg each3 bags, 32 kg each3 bags, 32 kg each3 bags, 32 kg each3 bags, 32 kg each
Complimentary sports equipment handlingYesYesYesYesYes
Complimentary standard seat selectionYesYesYes
Complimentary preferred seatsAt check-in with purchase of a Standard or Flex fareAt check-in with purchase of a Standard or Flex fareAt time of booking with a Standard or Flex fare for travel within Canada or between Canada and the U.S. At check-in for all other itineraries At time of booking with purchase of a Standard or Flex fareAt time of booking with purchase of any fare
eUpgrade credits510152030
Complimentary inflight refreshmentN/AN/AN/AN/AYes
Complimentary access to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada CafesN/AN/AYesYesYes
Access to Star Alliance Gold loungesN/AN/AYesYesYes
Access to Virgin Australia LoungesN/AN/AYesYesYes
Access to Emirates business class loungesN/AN/AYesYesYes
Access to non-Star Alliance loungesN/AN/AYesYesYes
Access to LHR Arrivals LoungeN/AN/AN/AN/AYes
Star Alliance Equivalent TierStar Alliance SilverStar Alliance SilverStar Alliance GoldStar Alliance GoldStar Alliance Gold
Elite points multiplier with Air Canada and Star Alliance flights1 extra point per $1 spent2 extra points per $1 spent3 extra points per $1 spent4 extra points per $1 spent5 extra points per $1 spent
eUpgrade credits for eligible Flight Pass activities4681012
SQCs for eligible Flight Pass activities750 SQCs1,000 SQCs1,250 SQCs1,500 SQCs2,500 SQCs
Priority contactsYesYesYesYesYes
Priority reservation waitlistYesYesYesYesYes
Complimentary changes and cancellations with Aeroplan award flightsN/AN/AN/AN/AYes
Access to milestone benefitsYesYesYesYesYes
eUpgrade nomineeN/AN/AN/AN/AYes
Status PassN/AN/AN/AN/A2
Elite Parental LeaveYesYesYesYesYes
Early RecognitionYesYesYesYesYes
Priority benefits with United AirlinesYesYesN/AN/AN/A
Priority benefits with Lufthansa GroupYesYesN/AN/AN/A
Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite statusN/AN/AYesYesYes
Complimentary Avis elite statusAvis Preferred PlusAvis Preferred PlusAvis Preferred PlusAvis President’s ClubAvis President’s Club
Earn a minimum of 250 points on eligible fares regardless of distance traveledYesYesYesYesYes
Additional earnings on hotel stays and rental car reservations3 bonus points per dollar spent3 bonus points per dollar spent3 bonus points per dollar spent3 bonus points per dollar spent3 bonus points per dollar spent
Additional points on Aeroplan eStore purcnases2 bonus points per dollar spent2 bonus points per dollar spent2 bonus points per dollar spent2 bonus points per dollar spent2 bonus points per dollar spent
Additional Avis earnings2 bonus points per dollar spent2 bonus points per dollar spent2 bonus points per dollar spent2 bonus points per dollar spent2 bonus points per dollar spent
Convert Aeroplan points to Marriott Bonvoy pointsYesYesYesYesYes

Aeroplan milestone benefits

Milestone benefits replaced elite select benefits in 2026. For every 10,000 SQCs earned, members receive a milestone benefit. After reaching 200,000 SQCs, milestone benefits are awarded every additional 20,000 SQCs. You must hold elite status to earn milestone benefits — meaning your first milestone benefit is awarded after earning 10,000 SQCs beyond Aeroplan 25K.

Milestone benefits alternate between automatic rewards and selected perks.

  • 10,000 SQCs: Automatic 10 eUpgrade credits valid for upgrades to business or premium economy on Air Canada flights
  • 20,000 SQCs: Select one of six available benefits, such as 50% off one Air Canada flight reward, additional eUpgrade credits, or bonus points
  • 30,000 SQCs: Automatic 10 eUpgrade credits valid for upgrades to business or premium economy on Air Canada flights
  • 40,000 SQCs: Select one of seven available benefits, such as bonus SQCs
  • 50,000 SQCs: Automatic 10 eUpgrade credits valid for upgrades to business or premium economy on Air Canada flights
  • 60,000 SQCs: Select one of six available benefits, such as two status pass gifts
  • 70,000 SQCs: Automatic 10 eUpgrade credits valid for upgrades to business or premium economy on Air Canada flights, plus a choice of one of four benefits, such as a $150 Air Canada gift card
  • 80,000 SQCs: Select one of six available benefits
  • 90,000 SQCs: Automatic 10 eUpgrade credits valid for upgrades to business or premium economy on Air Canada flights, plus a choice of one of four benefits, such as gifting Aeroplan 35K status to a friend
  • 100,000 SQCs: Select one of six available benefits

By the time you reach 200,000 SQCs, you can choose benefits such as Banked Aeroplan Super Elite status, allowing you to retain status for a year when you might not otherwise earn it. Earning that many SQCs requires a significant time and financial investment, but it may pay off for ultra-loyal travelers.

Air Canada lifetime status

The Air Canada Million Mile program offers lifetime Aeroplan elite status to members who surpass one million Lifetime Qualifying Miles. LQMs are earned on eligible flights operated by Air Canada. Below is an overview of the status and additional benefits available at each Million Mile tier.

  • 1 million miles: Earn Aeroplan 50K for life
  • 2 million miles: Earn Aeroplan 75K for life, and nominate a friend for lifetime Aeroplan 50K
  • 3 million miles: Earn Aeroplan Super Elite for life
  • 4 million miles: Continue to enjoy Super Elite, plus upgrade your previously nominated friend to lifetime Aeroplan 75K

Every year after earning your spot in the Million Mile program, you'll receive additional benefits:

  • 1 million miles: 2,500 SQCs
  • 2 million miles: 5,000 SQCs and Aeroplan 35K status for a friend
  • 3 million miles: 10,000 SQCs and Aeroplan 50K status for a friend
  • 4 million miles: 20,000 SQCs and Aeroplan 75K status for a friend
  • 5 million miles: 30,000 SQCs and Aeroplan Super Elite status for a friend
looking out a plane window at an Air Canada logo on the wingtips
Credit: Rafael Leão/Unsplash

Air Canada status match

Marriott and Air Canada have an interesting partnership that allows select Marriott elites to match to Air Canada elite status. If you hold Marriott Bonvoy® Titanium Elite Status or Marriott Bonvoy® Ambassador Elite Status, you can match to Aeroplan 25K. Matches are valid for at least 12 months, but you should keep your matched Aeroplan status as long as you maintain your Marriott status.

Related: Current Status Match and Fast-Track Opportunities for Airline Elite Status

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a comprehensive airline loyalty program, Air Canada Aeroplan is well worth a look. With numerous high-value ways to earn and redeem points, Aeroplan can deliver strong value even for occasional Air Canada flyers — and even for those who don’t regularly travel to Canada.

For rates and fees of the cards mentioned in this post, please visit the following links: Chase Air Canada Aeroplan® Credit Card (Rates & Fees), Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (Rates & Fees), and American Express® Gold Card (Rates & Fees)

Tip of The Day
Did you know that we display your elite status progress within the list of accounts? Each block in this progress bar represents an elite level. If you mouse over any of the blocks, it will show you the name of that elite level. Clicking it will open the account details on the 'Elite Levels' tab. This will show you exactly where you are regarding your elite status and what you need to do to reach the next level.
Screenshot of AwardWallet dashboard showing World of Hyatt elite status progress

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