Air Canada shifts Aeroplan rewards program from distance flown to spending-based model

Scott O’Leary, Air Canada's Vice President of Loyalty & Product, said: "Aeroplan has grown into one of the most rewarding and widely used travel loyalty programs. Our most engaged members do more than just fly with us - they earn with our partners, choose flexible fares, and carry Aeroplan credit cards. These changes help us better recognize their loyalty and keep improving the experience."

Air Canada emphasized that "Aeroplan Elite status qualification is unchanged for the remainder of 2025, including how members achieve status for 2026," assuring frequent flyers there will be no immediate changes this year. The airline also plans to introduce bonus offers aimed at helping members expedite their earnings.

Industry observers note that other major airlines have made similar moves in recent years by adopting spend-based models for their loyalty programs. For example, British Airways faced backlash after implementing such changes; some elements were later reversed following customer dissatisfaction when many frequent flyers switched to other carriers offering faster or fairer paths to elite status.

With these adjustments, Air Canada aims to reward its highest-spending customers while hoping that those who spend less remain engaged with the program. The airline expects that many current Aeroplan Elite status members will benefit from expanded ways to accumulate Status Qualifying Credits under the new system.