On Nov. 8, Air Canada will launch a new version of its
Aeroplan loyalty program that the carrier says provides more flexible
redemption options.
The new program opens reward bookings to any seat on any Air
Canada flights, including Basic Economy fares, and eliminates surcharges, such
as fuel surcharges, for flights bought with rewards points. Redemption will be
based on actual fares on the market rather than a fixed table, and the carrier
is providing a predictor tool to give members an estimation of what will be
needed for redemption of their desired flight. Members also will be able to use
a combination of points and cash to pay for a flight.
The program maintains its six-tier membership level for
elite status, though it is adding some new benefits in 2021. Those include
letting points earned from shopping with certain partners and Aeroplan credit
cards count toward status and the ability to share benefits such as early
boarding and lounge access to traveling companions.
Other new features include the ability to pool points with
other members within a family and the ability to earn points on Basic Economy
fares, according to Air Canada.
Current members' Aeroplan miles will be converted to
"Aeroplan points" under the new plan on a one-to-one basis beginning
Nov. 8. Aeroplan credit cardholders will continue to earn points as before.