In Episode 19 of Miles Ahead: The Canadian Points Podcast, Daniel, Jeff, and Josh from FrugalFlyer.ca discuss recent news in the world of miles and points, in addition to answering listeners’ questions.
The miles and points news that is discussed includes Hyatt’s new award calendar feature, a new Aspire Lounge at Montreal International Airport, and how to utilize Alaska Miles for Porter flights. The episode also covers how you can buy Porter Airlines status with AIR MILES, how Nova Credit is no more, and how Citibank recently added American Airlines as a transfer partner.
The team also answers listener questions about annual fee credit cards for students and achieving Super Elite 100K status without flying.
(01:36) World of Hyatt Award Calendar Update
The World of Hyatt award calendar now also shows availability at the award price, where it only used to show what the award price would be.
- Read More: World of Hyatt Loyalty Program
(03:24) New Amex-Aspire Lounge at Montreal International Airport (YUL)
A new Amex-Aspire lounge is opening in the domestic terminal of the Montreal International Airport in September 2025. This is a fantastic development as it marks the first common-use lounge in the domestic terminal.
(05:53) Using Atmos Rewards Points for Porter Flights
Atmos Rewards points (formerly Alaska Miles) can be redeemed for travel on Porter Airlines, often offering outsized value for both PorterClassic and PorterReserve classes.
- Read More: Atmos Rewards & Porter Airlines Economy Review
(11:56) Buying VIPorter Venture Status with AIR MILES
Until September 8th, Onyx AIR MILES members can purchase VIPorter Venture Status, which lasts until December 31st, 2025, for a total cost of 410 Dream Miles. This level of status grants a free checked bag, free seat selection, and a free carry-on bag for the account holder and up to 8 guests on the same itinerary.
- Read More: VIPorter Loyalty Program & VIPorter Elite Status Guide
(15:42) Nova Credit Path to US Credit Cards is Gone
Nova Credit is no longer available for Canadians who want to get into the US credit card game. Instead, Amex Global Transfer is now the main reliable way forward.
- Read More: Amex Global Transfer
(18:37) Citibank Adds American Airlines as Transfer Partner
Citibank has recently added American Airlines AAdvantage as a frequent flyer transfer partner to their ThankYou Rewards program.
- Read More: Citi ThankYou Rewards & American Airlines AAdvantage
- Read More: Flight Award Ticket Holds
(23:26) Listener Question: Credit Cards for Students
Ethan asks about the best credit cards for students, and more specifically, are there any credit cards with annual fees that are worth having as a student?
(28:10) Listener Question: Achieving Aeroplan Super Elite 100k Status
Shlomo asks if there is a quick path to achieving Aeroplan Super Elite 100k status?
(31:51) Conclusion
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Join us for the next episode, where the Frugal Flyer team explores whether chasing airline elite status is worth it.
Listen to Miles Ahead: Episode 20 – Is Airline Elite Status Worth It?