Maximizing the Redemption of Aeroplan Points

Air Canada's loyalty program, Aeroplan, is highly regarded by travelers seeking awards, and it's easy to see why. Accumulating Aeroplan points is simple, and the redemption rates offer excellent value, with numerous sweet spots available.

In contrast to several major U.S. loyalty programs, Aeroplan still maintains its award chart, showcasing an extensive list of airline partners that continues to expand. Being a member of Star Alliance further enhances Aeroplan's value, which is why we've compiled the top strategies for utilizing Air Canada Aeroplan points effectively.

Redeeming Aeroplan Points Effectively

Redeem Aeroplan points for flights to over 1,300 destinations with more than 50 airline partners globally. This includes carriers from Star Alliance as well as non-alliance partners like Azul Brazilian Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Etihad Airways. You can also mix and match airlines to maximize your options, especially when award availability is limited.

Aeroplan's award chart proves advantageous for short-haul economy trips and international premium-cabin seats, especially with partner airlines.

Air Canada's pricing for flights varies, ensuring all seats are accessible for award bookings. Partner awards have fixed pricing according to a chart, but availability may be restricted.

The Aeroplan program features a hybrid award chart that considers the distance traveled as well as the departure and arrival regions.

Flights Across North America

The table below illustrates the estimated one-way award costs for Aeroplan flights within North America, where round-trip awards are priced at double the amount.

The ideal sweet spot is found in short-haul economy flights under 500 miles with United Airlines and Air Canada, costing as low as 6,000 points. TPG estimates Aeroplan points are valued at 1.5 cents each, making 6,000 points equivalent to $90. These routes typically cover most flights in the Northeast U.S. and to/from Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ).

Short-haul flights, such as one-way trips from Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to Washington's Dulles International Airport (IAD), can be quite pricey, with awards available for 6,000 to 10,000 Aeroplan points.

Longer economy flights within North America usually cost between 10,000 and 17,500 points each way, which is in line with industry averages. However, flights over 2,751 miles, like those from the East Coast to Hawaii, can range from 17,500 to 25,000 points. The advantage of Aeroplan lies in its flexible options for earning points.

Explore Europe

Aeroplan is now offering exceptional award rates for long-haul travel, especially since it has removed fuel surcharges. Previously, fees could reach nearly $1,000 each way for premium cabin awards from the U.S. to Europe, diminishing the value of your "free" ticket, but that's no longer an issue.

When flying from the continental U.S. to Europe on Air Canada's partners, expect to spend between 35,000 to 40,000 points for economy, 60,000 to 70,000 points for business, and 90,000 to 100,000 points for first class. For instance, a flight from New York's JFK to Frankfurt Airport is approximately 3,900 miles, placing it in the first pricing tier, while a flight from LAX to Frankfurt spans about 5,800 miles, categorizing it in the second tier.

This means you can secure a business class seat from the East Coast to much of Western Europe for just 60,000 points, or 70,000 points if traveling from the West Coast.

This is less than what you would currently pay for the same flights using United Airlines MileagePlus miles after the program's 2023 devaluation.

Explore Asia

You can also find excellent offers heading west. Partner awards between North America and the Pacific range from 35,000 to 75,000 points in economy, 55,000 to 105,000 in business, and 90,000 to 140,000 in first class, depending on distance.

For example, a flight from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Tokyo's Haneda Airport (HND) with All Nippon Airways covers just under 5,000 miles; thus, a business-class fare would require 55,000 points. Cash prices typically exceed $3,000 each way, providing a value of over 5 cents per point, which is outstanding.

Utilize Aeroplan for family trips

Aeroplan stands out as one of the top loyalty programs for families. In addition to the family points pooling feature, it offers some of the lowest fees for traveling with a lap infant. Infant awards are complimentary for travel solely within Canada and between Canada and the U.S., while other routes only cost 25 Canadian dollars ($19) or 2,500 Aeroplan points.

You can also include stopovers for just 5,000 points each. One stopover is allowed per one-way trip and two for each round-trip. Just keep in mind that flights within North America do not qualify for stopovers.

Another fantastic feature of Aeroplan is its highly dependable search engine for Star Alliance award availability. It clearly indicates mixed-cabin itineraries, eliminating any confusion about the service class you’re booking. Additionally, Aeroplan's booking tool is designed to reduce phantom award availability — a frequent issue in the past.

How to accumulate Aeroplan points

The simplest way to rack up Air Canada Aeroplan points is by using the right credit card.

New applicants for the Aeroplan® Credit Card can currently receive 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within the first three months. Additionally, you can earn 25,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 in the first year.

As of September 2024, TPG estimates that Aeroplan points are valued at 1.5 cents each, making this sign-up bonus worth approximately $1,500.

Even with such a generous welcome bonus, the Chase Aeroplan card has a modest annual fee of only $95.

Featuring triple points in various categories, monthly bonus points, statement credits, Aeroplan elite status, and reduced award pricing, this card is exceptionally valuable, especially for those who frequently fly Air Canada.

Aeroplan transfer partners

You can also transfer the following credit card rewards to Aeroplan at a 1:1 ratio:

• American Express Membership Rewards points
• Bilt Rewards points
• Capital One miles
• Chase Ultimate Rewards points

This indicates that the following cards currently provide excellent welcome bonuses with rewards that can be transferred to your Aeroplan account:

• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• American Express® Gold Card
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
• Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Bottom line

Air Canada's Aeroplan loyalty program provides strong redemption rates, flexible stopovers, and no fuel surcharges, allowing for great deals on award tickets. It also collaborates with many major transferable-points programs, meaning you might have various rewards that can ultimately be converted into Aeroplan points.

Remember the valuable Aeroplan credit card that offers numerous benefits, particularly if you travel with Air Canada.

As major programs shift to fully dynamic pricing with staggering redemption rates, Air Canada's Aeroplan program continues to be an overlooked yet valuable choice for your next points redemption.