Air Canada Aeroplan to change how members earn points and elite status
The Canadian airline just ranked the best in North America just made a game-changing announcement regarding its membership program.
Fresh off the news that Air Canada's newest route (returning after a 5 year hiatus) isn't served by an aircraft, the airline has just issued changes to the Aeroplan loyalty program that will update its points-earning system.
What are the new changes for Aeroplan members?
Under the new system, members will earn points on eligible Air Canada flights based on how much they spend, rather than how far they travel.
Each dollar spent on qualifying flights will earn at least one Aeroplan point.
According to the airline, the updates aim to better reward members who fly and spend more with Air Canada, while maintaining the exclusivity of Elite Status.
On the same date, Air Canada will also launch Status Qualifying Credits, a new way to work toward Aeroplan Elite Status.
When is Aeroplan changing how members earn points and elite status?
Air Canada has announced upcoming changes to how Aeroplan members earn points, set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
Currently, Aeroplan points are based on miles flown, with rates varying by route and fare class. Starting January 1, 2026, points will be earned based on dollars spent: 1 point per $1 on base fares and surcharges (excluding taxes/fees), with Elite members earning 2x to 6x depending on status.
This means fewer points for long-haul economy flights but significantly more for business class or high-status travellers.
Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) will replace the current mix of status requirements (miles, segments, spend). You'll now need:
25K SQC for 25K status
35K for 35K, and so on up to
125K for Super Elite
You'll earn 2x SQC on standard fares and 4x on flex and business fares. Basic economy earns none. SQC can also be earned via partners (like Uber and Starbucks) and Aeroplan credit card spending—capped at 25,000 per year per source.
Bottom line: Frequent business travellers and high spenders benefit most; casual flyers may see fewer points but can still earn through credit cards and partners.
Why the changes?
The switch to Status Qualifying Currency (SQC) is meant to boost revenue by rewarding higher spenders with better perks.
Mid-tier members may be motivated to spend more to reach the next status level, while casual travellers won't be heavily affected—especially if they earn points through Aeroplan credit cards.
Though it may seem like a cash grab, this shift aligns with typical loyalty programs: the more you spend, the more you're rewarded.
For dedicated users, the new system offers a more flexible and fair way to unlock benefits.
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