Big change coming to Air Canada frequent flyer points program

A big change is coming for Air Canada frequent flyers next year.

Air Canada announced a change to its frequent flyer loyalty program, Aeroplan.

Currently, travellers earn points based on the distance they fly.

Starting on Jan. 1, Aeroplan members will earn points on dollars spent rather than the distance they travel.

Members will earn a minimum of one Aeroplan point per $1 spent on an eligible Air Canada flights (base fare and carrier surcharges, excluding applicable taxes, fees, and third-party charges). So if you spend $427 on base fare and carrier surcharges (excluding applicable taxes, fees and third-party charges), you get 427 Aeroplan points.

Also starting next year, Air Canada will introduce Status Qualifying Credits, a new single path for achieving Aeroplan Elite status, that will change how members qualify for status.

Starting next year, the credits can be earned through eligible flight purchases, Aeroplan credit card spending, and activity with the program’s travel and everyday partners.

Aeroplan Elite status members get perks such as extra points per dollar spent, free checked bags and airport lounge access.

For more information, see the Air Canada website.