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Air Canada's Aeroplan recently announced the addition of Bahrain-based Gulf Air as its newest partner. You can now earn and redeem your Aeroplan points when flying with Gulf Air. The addition brings the number of Aeroplan partners in the region to two — with the addition of Etihad in June 2020.
Earning Aeroplan Points with Gulf Air
When flying Gulf Air, the Aeroplan points that you earn depends on the distance flown and the fare class of your ticket. Points are earned as follows:
- Business-class fares (C, D, J, and I) earn 125% of the distance flown.
- Economy class:
- Y earns 100% of the distance flown
- L, M, B, and H earn 50% of the distance flown
- U, V, E, O, N, S, K, X, Q, and W earn 25% of the distance flown
Redeeming Aeroplan Points For Gulf Air Flights
When it comes to redeeming your Aeroplan points for Gulf Air flights, there is plenty of great options for you to choose from — with some interesting sweet spots to boot. Due to how Aeroplan breaks down the world in its award chart, Bahrain is considered the Atlantic zone, along with most of Europe, the middle east, Africa, and the Indian subcontinent.
While Gulf Air does not have the extensive network of destinations other gulf carriers have, it still caters to a significant number of destinations. Flights between Paris or London and Bahrain would all come in under 4,000 miles.
Looking at the Aeroplan partner awards, a one-way award on Gulf Air from Bahrain (BAH) to London (LHR) or Pairs (CDG) would set you back just 25,000 points in economy or 45,000 points in business.
That is excellent value for especially in business class on what is over an 8-hour flight:
If you are looking to head eastward, then there are some great options flying to Manila, Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur. There is excellent value, particularly when redeeming points for business class awards.
All four destinations are under the 5,000 miles distance from Bahrain. So award flights on these routes will set you back 60,000 points one way in business.
On the other hand, if you are looking to travel from London or Paris connecting in Bahrain, then a one-way business class award to any of the four destinations will set you back 80,000 miles.
Redemption Terms and Conditions
Booking Gulf Air awards are subject to a few simple terms and conditions, including:
- Awards can be online, via the mobile app, or via the Air Canada contact center.
- Awards can be combined with flights operated by other partners, as well as Air Canada.
- You can redeem your points for economy or business awards.
- A partner booking fee of CAD$39 applies to all Aeroplan redemptions that include partner flights.
Our Take
While Gulf Air does not have the reputation and glamour of other Gulf carriers, it still offers a fantastic hard product and service in its premium cabins. Its addition as an Aeroplan partner gives travelers even more choice connecting through the region, with both Etihad and Gulf Air now being Aeroplan partners. Let us know about your experience redeeming and flying Gulf Air in the comments below.
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