Air Canada revealed how it would be updating its Aeroplan loyalty program. The new program will launch on Nov. 8, and those already in the program will transition to the new program when it begins. Aeroplan miles will change to Aeroplan points, and existing balances of miles will be honored on a one-to-one basis. Aeroplan credit cards will also still earn Aeroplan points.
"Air Canada promised an outstanding new Aeroplan that would be among the best travel loyalty programs in the world, and we are fulfilling that promise," says Calin Rovinescu, president and chief executive of Air Canada. "The new Aeroplan program, which has been extremely well thought through, has been eagerly anticipated as a key driver of our ongoing transformation, this is more important than ever as airlines compete to earn and retain customer loyalty in a rapidly changing environment."
This transformation includes improved value on flight rewards, including:
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Members can redeem their Aeroplan points to purchase any Air Canada seat available, with no restrictions.
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Additional airline surcharges on all flight rewards with Air Canada will be eliminated.
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Points needed for Aeroplan flights rewards on Air Canada will be based on the actual market process.
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Aeroplan allows members to earn or redeem points with over 35 airlines.
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Members can save their Aeroplan points and pay for a part of their flight reward with cash.
"Since we announced our commitment to improve Aeroplan, we've been listening to feedback from more than 36,000 consumers; we've benchmarked against loyalty and frequent flyer programs from around the globe, and we've completely rebuilt our digital infrastructure," says Mark Nasr, vice president of loyalty and e-commerce at Air Canada. "The result is a truly responsive and flexible loyalty program delivering a more rewarding experience so that members can travel more and travel better."
Alongside the updated features, Air Canada has added new features to its offering, including:
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Members can combine their Aeroplan points with others in their household for free.
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Aeroplan points can be earned with every Air Canada flight booked in cash on its website or app.
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Members can redeem their points to upgrade to Air Canada Premium Economy or Business Class.
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Members can use their points on extras like in-flight Wi-Fi.
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Points can be redeemed on trip extras, like car rentals, hotel stays or vacation packages.
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There are new merchandise rewards like electronics, houseware and more.
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