Air Canada has unveiled major changes to its Aeroplan loyalty program, set to take effect for the 2026 status year. These changes introduce a new revenue-based earning system, a fresh approach to status qualification, and an innovative milestone benefits structure. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key updates and how they may impact Aeroplan members.
Here’s a summary of all the changes related to the Aeroplan Elite Status. We will cover everything in detail below.
The elite status tiers remain the same, but qualification thresholds have changed:
The Aeroplan Super Elite Status is the most impacted, as it will require earning 125,000 SQC (increased from previous requirements).
Starting January 1, 2026, Aeroplan members will earn points based on their spend with Air Canada and partners rather than the distance flown. The new base earning rate is:
Aeroplan Elite members will enjoy increased earning potential through status multipliers:
Air Canada plans to offer frequent promotions, allowing members to earn bonus points beyond the base rate. These promotions may include:
Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) will replace the current Status Qualifying Miles (SQM) and Status Qualifying Segments (SQS) system.
Members will earn SQC based on their fare type:
For those who primarily or exclusively fly with Air Canada, here’s how you could achieve different status levels based solely on Air Canada flight spending:
Remember, you can mix and match fare types. For example, you could reach 50K status by spending $10,000 on Flex fares (40,000 SQC) and $5,000 on Standard fares (10,000 SQC).
Even if you primarily fly with Air Canada, having an Aeroplan Premium credit card can significantly boost your status earning potential and provide additional benefits:
By combining Air Canada flight spending with an Aeroplan Premium credit card, you can maximize your SQC earnings and potentially achieve higher status levels with less overall spending. This strategy also provides you with a buffer in case your travel plans change, ensuring you’re still on track for your desired status level.
Members can also earn SQC through partner activity and Aeroplan credit card spend:
To reach Aeroplan 50K status, you would need to combine various earning methods, keeping in mind the 25,000 SQC cap for credit card spend and partner activities. Here are some more realistic scenarios:
These scenarios demonstrate how members can strategically combine different earning methods to achieve 50K status while respecting the 25,000 SQC cap on credit card spend and partner activities. The key is to leverage Air Canada flight spending, which is not subject to the cap, to bridge any gaps in SQC earnings.
The new milestone benefits system replaces the current selectable benefits, threshold rewards, and Priority Rewards. Members unlock benefits every 10,000 SQC earned, up to 200,000 SQC, and then every 20,000 SQC thereafter, up to 1,000,000 SQC.
10,000 SQC Milestone: 10 eUpgrade Credits (automatic)
20,000 SQC Milestone (choice of one):
30,000 SQC Milestone: 10 eUpgrade Credits (automatic)
40,000 SQC Milestone (choice of one):
Higher milestones continue to offer more valuable choices, including options like 50K for a friend or Banked Super Elite status at the 200,000 SQC milestone.
Air Canada is introducing a redesigned digital experience to support members in their status and benefits progression:
This new Milestone Benefits system aims to provide more flexibility and personalization for Aeroplan members, allowing them to choose benefits that best suit their travel needs throughout the year. It also encourages continued engagement with the program beyond initial status qualification.
The Everyday Qualification option for Aeroplan 25K status remains unchanged. Members can still earn this status by accumulating 100,000 Aeroplan points through eligible sources.
While members will receive fewer core e-upgrades with their status, they can earn more through milestone benefits. There are no major changes to lounge access or core Super Elite benefits.
The Million Mile program remains unchanged, continuing to recognize members based on the actual distance flown on Air Canada metal. However, fare type bonuses will no longer apply to Lifetime Qualifying Miles calculations.
Starting in 2027, primary Aeroplan premium credit cardholders who qualify for Aeroplan Elite status can receive a 10% SQC bonus based on their previous year’s earnings. This “Head Start” benefit replaces the current Rollover SQM benefit.
The Chase Aeroplan card will see some changes, including:
As Air Canada rolls out these significant changes to the Aeroplan program, members should carefully evaluate how the new structure aligns with their travel patterns and spending habits.
While the revenue-based model may benefit some high-spending travelers, others may need to adjust their strategies to maximize their earnings and maintain elite status. Stay tuned for more detailed information and analysis as we approach the 2026 program year.
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