Air Canada is overhauling its Aeroplan frequent flyer program in a move that could disadvantage budget-conscious travelers. Aeroplan boasts more than 8 million members. It is one of the largest loyalty programs in Canada, with partnerships spanning the Star Alliance network, major hotel chains, retailers, and financial institutions.
Beginning January 1, 2026, Aeroplan members will earn points based on how much they spend, rather than the distance they fly. Such a shift has been adopted over the years by an increasing number of airlines around the world. The trend is now to tailor loyalty rewards to the most profitable customers.
In a bid to ‘mellow’ the impact, the airline announced that the shift would come with “frequent promotional offers.” But travel rewards experts warn the change will make it harder for economy-class passengers—particularly those on long-haul flights—to rack up points.
Business Logic vs. Customer Perception
Under the current system, a Montreal–Vancouver round trip earns about 4,300 Aeroplan points. Starting in 2026, that same journey will yield anywhere from 200 to 800 points, depending on the fare paid. Air Canada says the goal is to reward members who not only fly frequently but also use Aeroplan-affiliated credit cards. Or shop with program partners.
The airline is also introducing “Qualification Credits to a Status” (CQS), a new metric for earning elite tiers. This will particularly affect the Super Elite status. Super Elite is Aeroplan’s highest published status, offering priority services, first-class upgrades, and higher points-earning rates.
To reach the top Super Elite status, members will need 125,000 CQS—about 25% more than today. It will then be impossible to get there without significant spending on Air Canada or its partners. According to experts, it will be equivalent to US$23,125 (C$31,250) annually on Flex fares, or US$46,250 (C$62,500) on Standard fares. Credit card spending and purchases with Aeroplan partners would partially reduce those thresholds.
Air Canada argues the overhaul “better recognizes members who spend more and are more active within the program.”
For the airline, the logic is however clear. Loyalty programs are costly, and rewarding higher-margin passengers makes financial sense. With the risk of alienating leisure travelers, families or lower-income individuals.
